A significant power outage that struck several regions across Spain on Tuesday has tragically resulted in at least five deaths, with the potential for the toll to rise to seven, and numerous cases of poisoning reported nationwide, according to official emergency and security sources.
The most severe incident occurred in the Galician town of Taboadela (Ourense), where three family members lost their lives due to carbon monoxide inhalation, as reported by La Vanguardia. The victims—an 81-year-old man, his 77-year-old wife, and their 56-year-old son—were using a generator to power a respirator, crucial for one of the family members' survival. The Guardia Civil suggested that improper combustion of the generator had allowed toxic gas to fill their home.
Additionally, in Alzira, a city in Valencia, a 46-year-old woman with a pulmonary condition died at home. While police sources indicated that the blackout disrupted the operation of the equipment supplying her with oxygen, the Conselleria de Sanidad mentioned that her death was due to natural causes, although her family believes the power outage played a significant role.
In Madrid, a 52-year-old woman perished, and thirteen others suffered from smoke inhalation in a fire that broke out in a Carabanchel district residence, allegedly ignited by a candle during the power cut. The fire erupted while electricity was still out in the area, prompting firefighters to carry out multiple rescues. Eight individuals received on-site treatment, and five were transported to hospitals.
Galician authorities have also reported the deaths of three additional people in various locations in A Coruña, leading some media outlets to speculate about a total of ten fatalities. In Ferrol, a 59-year-old man with pre-existing conditions was found deceased by his niece, though it remains unconfirmed if his death was connected to the blackout. In Betanzos, an octogenarian passed away after having been reported in good health by his caregiver the previous night. Another 86-year-old man in Dumbría died under circumstances still under investigation, but a link to the power outage appears likely.
Diego Calvo, the conselleiro of Galicia's Presidency, confirmed that these fatalities are being examined as part of the incidents tied to the blackout, the causes of which are still being investigated. The 112 emergency system has logged over a hundred calls related to health issues, fires, and medical equipment failures due to the power interruption.
Meanwhile, Spain's central government has urged caution and announced a review of emergency protocols in light of the substantial impact such blackouts can have on the most vulnerable populations.
Impact of the Power Outage in Spain: Key Questions Answered
What caused the power outage in Spain?
The exact causes of the power outage are still under investigation. Authorities are examining the incidents to determine the underlying issues.
How many people have been affected by the blackout?
At least five fatalities have been confirmed, with several more individuals suffering from poisoning and other health issues related to the outage.
What measures is the government taking in response?
The Spanish government is reviewing emergency protocols to better manage such incidents and mitigate their impact on vulnerable populations.
Were any specific regions more severely impacted?
The Galician town of Taboadela experienced the most severe incident, with three members of a family dying from carbon monoxide poisoning.