Czechia faces massive power outage! Metro is not working and people are trapped in elevators

The Czech Republic was hit today by a widespread power outage, which has crippled a significant part of the territory. According to available information, parts of Prague, the Central Bohemian, Ústí nad Labem, Hradec Králové, and Liberec regions are without power. The cause is a failure on the backbone very high voltage line network operated by the company ČEPS, which ensures the transmission of electrical energy throughout the Czech Republic to substations.

Transport and infrastructure at risk

The outage has a significant impact on transport and infrastructure. In Prague, no metro line is running, trains have stopped on many railway lines, and other public transport dependent on electricity is also not functioning. Minister of Transport Martin Kupka asked passengers for understanding and patience on social media, while energy workers are working on the fastest possible remedy.

The positive news is that Václav Havel Airport Prague remains operational, as it was not affected by the power outage. Highway tunnels also remain functional, which is of course crucial for maintaining basic transport infrastructure.

Firefighters and police on standby

In connection with the power outage, crisis measures have been activated. Minister of the Interior Vít Rakušan put the Central Crisis Staff on standby. Firefighters throughout the affected area are responding to people trapped in elevators – Central Bohemian firefighters alone report interventions at 12 locations, including Mladá Boleslav, Poděbrady, and Kolín.

The Police of the Czech Republic announced that they have increased patrol activity in the affected areas and police officers are directing traffic at selected intersections in cities affected by the outage. The situation is dynamic, and security forces are trying to minimize the risks associated with the non-functionality of electrical equipment.

Cause of the outage unknown so far

The company ČEPS, which is the transmission system operator, announced that part of the transmission system is without voltage and the outage has also affected several substations. The more specific cause of the problems is not yet known, but technicians are working intensively on the repair.

In Prague, according to the company PRE, the cause is an outage at the Chodov substation of ČEPS. Repair work is also underway here with maximum priority to restore electricity supply as soon as possible.

How to proceed during a power outage

Residents of the affected areas should remain calm and monitor the official channels of their electricity distributors for current information. If necessary, it is advisable to contact the customer lines of the relevant distribution companies.

During a power outage, it is good to turn off all sensitive electronic appliances to prevent damage when the supply is restored. If someone gets stuck in an elevator, they should use the emergency button and wait for the arrival of firefighters – under no circumstances should they attempt self-rescue.

Situation is developing

The extent and impacts of the outage are still being evaluated. The relevant authorities and institutions are continuously monitoring the situation and taking necessary measures. We will inform you about further developments as soon as new reports are available.

Were you affected by the power outage in Czechia?