A widespread blackout on Tuesday has cast much of Chile into darkness, leading to significant disruptions for millions, including halted public transport, internet outages, and paralyzed businesses and daily activities. In response, the government has declared a state of emergency and implemented a mandatory nighttime curfew until 6am on Wednesday (AEST).
The power outage has had far-reaching impacts, with around seven million people left without electricity after more than five hours. Essential services were affected; mobile phone and internet connectivity were severely disrupted, the country’s largest copper producer suspended its mining operations, and many areas reported water shortages as electric pumps ceased to function. Emergency generators were put into action to sustain critical services in hospitals and governmental establishments.
Interior Minister Carolina Tohá addressed the nation, highlighting the urgency of ensuring public safety amid the chaos and announcing the deployment of security forces to maintain order in the darkened streets. The blackout reportedly resulted from a malfunction in a high-voltage transmission line transmitting power from northern Chile to the capital, Santiago, but the exact cause remains unclear.
The nation’s transportation system faced significant challenges, with traffic lights dark and subway services halted. Many residents expressed anxiety about being trapped in underground transport systems or elevators that were inoperable due to the outage. The unavailability of lighting and refrigeration exacerbated the situation, with concern growing for perishable goods in homes during the hot summer season.
In areas impacted by the blackout, businesses—including bars, restaurants, and cinemas—suffered financial losses, and all forms of public festivities were cancelled or postponed. Furthermore, many cultural and sporting events were also affected, contributing to a sense of turmoil during the crisis. Santiago, home to about 8.4 million people, has been especially hard hit, with reports indicating that only about 27% of its traffic lights were functioning.
Emergency protocols were activated at Santiago International Airport, where officials cautioned that flight disruptions were possible due to reliance on backup power sources. Meanwhile, Chile’s state-owned mining giant, Codelco, confirmed that all operations had been adversely impacted.
The situation remains fluid, as restoration efforts are underway. As the evening progressed, Tohá cautioned the public about potential dangers, urging residents to refrain from unnecessary outings during these tumultuous times. The national emergency response agency, Senapred, is monitoring the situation closely, aiming to address the crisis effectively as power restoration efforts continue.