Widespread Blackout Hits Western Cuba
A massive power outage plunged Havana and the western half of Cuba into darkness on Wednesday, December 3, 2025, affecting millions of residents. The widespread disruption was attributed to a failure on a critical transmission line connecting two major power plants. This incident marks the latest in a series of energy challenges facing the Caribbean nation.
Details of the Outage and Initial Response
The power failure occurred around 5 a.m. ET (1000 GMT), impacting the capital city of Havana and at least four western provinces, including Pinar del Rio, Artemisa, and Mayabeque. Lázaro Guerra, general director of the Ministry of Energy and Mines, confirmed that the outage stemmed from a transmission line failure and stated that power would be restored gradually. By midday, approximately 40% of Havana had seen electricity restored, and the power grid was reported to be operational again by Wednesday afternoon. However, officials cautioned that full restoration would not be immediate due to persistent generation deficits.
Cuba's Persistent Energy Crisis
This recent blackout is indicative of Cuba's long-standing and deepening energy crisis. The island's electric grid is characterized by its aging infrastructure, with many power plants dating back to the 1980s and 90s. Compounding the issue are chronic fuel shortages and broader economic difficulties, which hinder maintenance and modernization efforts. Cuba has experienced several significant blackouts in recent history, including a total nationwide blackout in October 2024 and another widespread outage in September 2025.
Impact on Daily Life and Official Warnings
The nearly 12-hour blackout in some areas severely disrupted daily life. Traffic was snarled, with police officers directing vehicles in Havana. Schools were closed, and many students were sent home. Essential services like water supply, which relies on electricity for pumping, were also affected, alongside intermittent internet and mobile phone services. The U.S. Embassy in Havana issued a security alert following the incident, warning its citizens about the instability of the Cuban electrical system and potential failures in internet and phone services due to fuel shortages. The Cuban government has prioritized restoring power to critical facilities such as hospitals and water pumping stations.
6 Comments
Fuerza
The immediate cause was a transmission line failure, which can happen anywhere, but in Cuba, it quickly escalates due to a fragile system and limited resources for repair and prevention. It highlights vulnerability.
Manolo Noriega
It's understandable that an old grid would fail, but the recurring nature of these outages points to a deeper problem beyond just one transmission line. Long-term solutions are desperately needed.
Fuerza
While the economic embargo certainly hinders infrastructure development, internal policies also play a role in the lack of modernization. It's a complex issue with no single cause.
Manolo Noriega
Given the sanctions, it's a miracle they keep the grid running at all. Resilience is key!
Ongania
Another day, another challenge for Cuba. My heart goes out to the people there.
Eugene Alta
The government prioritizing hospitals is a responsible response in a crisis.