Articles on Blackouts

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Cubans are trying to carry on with daily life amid ongoing blackouts and economic uncertainty, as shown in this photo of Havana from March 2026. Adalberto Roque/AFP via Getty Images

Cuba needs a long‑term solution to its energy crisis

Short-term humanitarian aid won’t go far in alleviating Cuba’s long-term energy crisis.
Many older adults rely on electric-powered medical equipment, such as portable oxygen and nebulizers that help them breathe. Westend61 via Getty Images

Power outages in heat waves and storms can threaten the lives of medical device users – we looked at who is most at risk

Premature deaths rise during long-term blackouts, and ERs fill up. Knowing who is at risk and some creative solutions can help.
Strong winds from Hurricane Helene, one of the most powerful storms to hit the Southeast, flooded roads and cut power in multiple states. AP Photo/Mike Carlson

Hurricane Helene power outages leave millions in the dark – history shows poorer areas often wait longest for electricity to be restored

Researchers tracked power outages after 8 major storms to see how wealth corresponded to recovery time.
Utilities can turn off power to reduce the risk that their equipment could spark wildfires during extreme weather events. Smith Collection/Gado via Getty Images

Colorado is latest state to try turning off the electrical grid to prevent wildfires − a complex, technical operation pioneered in California

Turning off power is a last-ditch strategy for utilities to reduce the risk that their systems could spark wildfires. In most states, deciding whether to take that step is up to utilities.

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