A widespread power outage that struck Spain and Portugal on April 28, 2025, caused significant travel disruptions across the Iberian Peninsula, leaving thousands of travelers stranded and forcing emergency measures from authorities. Multiple countries have issued travel advisories, advising citizens to reconsider non-essential travel to affected regions.

Major Cities Affected by Power Outage

The blackout impacted major tourist destinations, including Madrid, Barcelona, Seville, and Lisbon. Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez declared a state of emergency as transportation networks halted across both countries. 

Many nations have updated their travel advisory status in response to the ongoing situation.

Spain and Portugal Travel Disruptions

Photo by Kevin George from Canva

The sudden power failure created immediate problems for all forms of transportation:

  • Airports across both countries operated on backup generators but faced significant operational challenges, resulting in widespread flight delays in Spain and Portugal
  • Train services came to a complete stop, with passengers stranded mid-journey. This led to crowded train stations and European travel scenes reminiscent of peak holiday periods.
  • Metro systems in major cities were paralyzed.
  • Travelers reported that they could not access their Airbnb rentals because electronic accommodation systems failed and the electronic locks malfunctioned.

Current Recovery Status

Spain’s national grid operator, Red Eléctrica, reports restoring 99.16% of power. However, the effects on travel continue:

  • Train services in Madrid are operating at 50% capacity, though high-speed services have resumed.
  • According to Enaire, Spain’s air navigation manager, airports are returning to normal operations, but flight schedules remain disrupted.
  • Portuguese airports are functioning but still working through a backlog of delayed flights, particularly at Lisbon’s hub.

Spain and Portugal Travel Advisory

Photo by Ioanna_Alexa from Зображення користувача Ioanna Alexa

If you’re currently traveling in Spain or Portugal, or have imminent plans to visit:

  1. Contact your airline directly for the most up-to-date flight information.
  2. Check public transportation status before heading to airports or train stations.
  3. Allow extra time for all journeys as systems recover.
  4. Keep accommodation confirmation details accessible offline.

 

EasyJet has announced that it provides alternative arrangements for passengers stranded by the disruption, and other carriers are expected to follow suit.

Lessons from the Crisis

This incident is a stark reminder of how vulnerable modern travel infrastructure can be to unexpected disruptions. The widespread effects of the power outage highlight the interconnected nature of our transportation systems and the need for robust contingency planning.

As operations gradually return to normal, Spanish and Portuguese authorities are reviewing emergency response procedures to better prepare for similar situations in the future.

Travelers planning to visit the region in the coming days should remain vigilant about possible lingering effects and maintain flexible itineraries.

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*Banner photo by Kike_Fernandez from Getty Images