Unfounded Vibration Theory Behind Spain-Portugal Blackout
- Madrid - A widespread blackout struck Spain and Portugal on April 28, 2025, disrupting power to millions and halting key infrastructure.
- Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez reported a rapid collapse of 15 gigawatts of electrical power, equivalent to 60% of Spain's national demand, occurred in a mere five seconds.
- Red Eléctrica, the Spanish company managing the country's electrical network, issued a press release the following morning stating that more than 99% of the power supply had been...
Spain, Portugal Grapple with Massive Power Outage; Cause Remains Elusive
Table of Contents
- Spain, Portugal Grapple with Massive Power Outage; Cause Remains Elusive
- Spain, portugal Power Outage: Your Questions Answered
- What Happened on April 28, 2025?
- How Extensive Was the Power Outage?
- How Quickly Did the Power Go Out?
- How Long Did the Power Outage last?
- What Organizations Respond to Power Outages?
- What Caused the Power Outage?
- Were there Any Initial Theories About the Cause?
- What Happened to the Initial Theories?
- Where Can I Find Real-Time Updates on Power Outages?
- What Steps Are Taken to restore Power After a Major outage?
- Key Facts Summary:
Madrid – A widespread blackout struck Spain and Portugal on April 28, 2025, disrupting power to millions and halting key infrastructure. The outage,which began around 12:30 p.m.,affected large portions of Spain,Portugal,southern France,and Andorra.
Rapid Power Loss
Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez reported a rapid collapse of 15 gigawatts of electrical power, equivalent to 60% of Spain’s national demand, occurred in a mere five seconds.
Power restoration efforts
Red Eléctrica, the Spanish company managing the country’s electrical network, issued a press release the following morning stating that more than 99% of the power supply had been restored.
Investigation into Cause Underway
the cause of the blackout remains under investigation. Initial speculation included the possibility of a cyberattack,but Red Eléctrica denied thes claims.The Spanish government has called for an self-reliant investigation to determine the cause of the power failure.
Initial Theories and Retractions
International media outlets initially reported a possible cause being “induced atmospheric vibration,” described as an oscillation of high tension potentially triggered by sudden changes in temperature, atmospheric pressure, or energy releases from explosions or extreme weather.
The theory gained traction after reports that Redes Energéticas Nacionais (REN), the Portuguese electricity network operator, had mentioned the possibility. Though, REN denied making such a statement when contacted by the fact-checking institution CHECKED.
Reuters afterward retracted its article that cited alleged REN press releases, according to CHECKED.
Spain, portugal Power Outage: Your Questions Answered
this article provides answers too the most pressing questions surrounding the widespread power outage that struck Spain and Portugal on April 28th, 2025. let’s dive in.
What Happened on April 28, 2025?
A massive blackout plunged large parts of Spain and Portugal into darkness on April 28, 2025. The outage, which began around 12:30 p.m., also affected areas of southern France and Andorra.
How Extensive Was the Power Outage?
The outage was widespread, affecting significant portions of Spain, Portugal, and neighboring regions.
How Quickly Did the Power Go Out?
The power loss happened almost instantaneously.Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez reported that 15 gigawatts of electrical power – equivalent to 60% of Spain’s national demand – collapsed in a mere five seconds.
How Long Did the Power Outage last?
According to a press release from Red Eléctrica, the Spanish company managing the country’s electrical network, over 99% of the power supply was restored by the following morning.
What Organizations Respond to Power Outages?
Key organizations involved included:
Red eléctrica: The Spanish company responsible for managing the country’s electrical network.
Redes Energéticas Nacionais (REN): The Portuguese electricity network operator.
What Caused the Power Outage?
The cause of the blackout remained under examination. Initial speculation included the possibility of a cyberattack, but Red Eléctrica denied those claims. The spanish government initiated an independent investigation to determine the cause.
Were there Any Initial Theories About the Cause?
Yes. International media outlets initially reported a possible cause being “induced atmospheric vibration.” This theory suggested the oscillation of high tension, potentially triggered by sudden changes in temperature, atmospheric pressure, or energy releases from explosions or extreme weather, may have caused the outage.
What Happened to the Initial Theories?
The “induced atmospheric vibration” theory gained traction when reports suggested that REN (portuguese electricity network operator) had mentioned the possibility. However, REN denied making such statements when contacted by CHECKED, a fact-checking institution. Consequently, Reuters retracted its article that cited alleged REN press releases, according to CHECKED.
Where Can I Find Real-Time Updates on Power Outages?
Reliable sources for details during power outages include:
Official Government Websites: Check the websites of energy ministries or national grid operators.
News Agencies: Reputable news sources will continue to release updates.
* Social Media (Verified Accounts): Follow verified accounts of grid operators and government agencies. Be wary of unverified sources.
What Steps Are Taken to restore Power After a Major outage?
Power restoration typically involves these steps:
- Assessment: Grid operators assess the damage and identify the source of the problem.
- Isolation: Damaged sections of the grid are isolated to prevent further issues.
- Repair: Crews are deployed to repair or replace damaged equipment.
- restoration: Power is gradually restored to different areas, prioritizing essential services.
- Monitoring: Continuous monitoring of the grid to ensure stability.
Key Facts Summary:
here’s a concise summary of the main points:
| Feature | Details |
| ———————- | ———————————————— |
| Date | April 28,2025 |
| Location | Spain,Portugal,Southern France,Andorra |
| Cause (Initial) | Under investigation |
| Power Loss(Spain) | 15 Gigawatts (60% national demand) in 5 seconds |
| Restoration Status | Over 99% restored by the next morning |
| Affected parties | Millions of residents and key infrastructure |
| Initial theories | Induced atmospheric vibration |
| Organizations | Red Eléctrica,REN |