On Monday, an extensive power outage struck Portugal, Spain, and parts of France, instantly affecting the lives of millions reliant on technology. Initially unfazed, I faced the reality of the situation as the local café owner offered little information and only cash transactions were possible. Without physical money, I struggled to feed my family amid concerns about how the outage was triggered, with speculation ranging from cyberattacks to dubious weather claims. The experience highlighted vulnerabilities in everyday conveniences and the dependency on technology for basic needs.
I walked down to my local café, hoping to get some more information. 'We have no idea what's going on - nothing is working,' the owner told me, gesturing to her dead till.
I also know water networks rely on electric pumps. Plus, I had three young kids at home wondering whether Dad would ever fix the TV.
They’re saying it might be a Russian cyberattack,' he said, looking remarkably laid back. 'Think of it as a free holiday,' he laughed.
I took the train to Lisbon this morning, but now I can't get home,' said a man in his 30s who was also trying to withdraw cash.
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