A massive power outage struck Spain and Portugal, exposing the vulnerability of digital payment systems and highlighting the benefits of cash in emergencies. The widespread blackout caused significant disruptions, including:
- *Transportation Disruptions*: Metro trains halted, airports came to a standstill, and hospitals canceled operations.
- *Communication Challenges*: Phone and internet signals were severely affected, making it difficult for people to contact loved ones or access essential services.
- *Digital Payment Issues*: Card machines and many ATMs lost power, leaving those reliant on digital transactions stranded.
However, individuals with cash were largely unaffected, able to continue their daily activities without significant interruptions. This incident raises concerns about the potential problems of a digital euro, emphasizing the importance of having alternative payment methods available.
The cause of the outage remains under investigation, with initial reports suggesting "induced atmospheric vibration" due to extreme temperature variations in Spain might be to blame. This phenomenon allegedly caused anomalous oscillations in high-voltage lines, leading to synchronization failures between electrical systems ¹.
*Key Impacts:*
- *Internet Traffic*: Internet traffic in Portugal and Spain dropped significantly, by around 90% and 80% respectively, compared to the previous week.
- *Network Quality*: Median download speeds decreased, and latency increased due to network congestion.
- *Power Restoration*: Electricity was gradually restored in parts of Spain, with some regions recovering faster than others ².