Major Power Outage Strikes Paris – Thousands Left in the Dark Amid Cold Snap

A major power outage struck parts of Paris on April 25, 2024, leaving thousands without electricity during a chilly spring evening. The blackout began around 7:30 PM local time and impacted several districts in the city’s north and central areas.

Cause and Response

The electricity company Enedis reported that the outage was due to a failure in a high-voltage transformer station. Engineers have been working around the clock to restore power, with an expected resolution by early morning April 26.

Impact on Daily Life

The outage disrupted daily activities significantly:

• Traffic lights stopped working, causing delays and congestion at key intersections.
• Some subway stations temporarily closed for safety reasons.
• Businesses, especially restaurants and shops, were forced to close early or reduce services.
• Residents faced difficulties with heating as temperatures dropped to around 8 degrees Celsius (46 degrees Fahrenheit).

Safety and Emergency Measures

Emergency services issued advisories urging people to:

1. Stay calm during the blackout.
2. Avoid using elevators indoors.
3. Keep flashlights and charged mobile phones handy.

Temporary shelters equipped with heating and power have been established at public centers to assist vulnerable groups such as the elderly and those with health conditions.

Official Statements and Future Plans

City officials and Enedis are working closely to manage the crisis. They highlighted the importance of infrastructure investments to prevent similar events. France plans to increase funding for power grid modernization.

Enedis has apologized for the disruption and is conducting an investigation into the transformer failure’s root cause. The city’s mayor emphasized that ensuring reliable electricity is a top priority and expressed gratitude to all emergency and utility workers involved.

Many residents voiced frustration on social media but also acknowledged the quick and effective response from emergency personnel.

For more updates, stay tuned to Questiqa Europe News.

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