Security Alert: U.S. Embassy Havana, Cuba – March 15, 2025
Location: Cuba
Event: Nationwide Power Outage
On March 14, 2025, Cuba's entire electrical grid shut down after the failure of a one of the country's substations that led to a nationwide power failure. As of 11:00 a.m. local time March 15, there is no update as to when power will be restored to the island though there are reports that electricity has been restored to some areas. It is expected that emergency services will continue, but all U.S. citizens in Cuba or planning on travelling to Cuba should be aware and plan accordingly. There are reports of cellphone and internet outages.
Cuba’s electrical grid is increasingly unstable and there have been multiple nationwide power outages since October 18, 2024. The electrical system remains vulnerable and additional regular outages have been occurring more frequently and for longer periods. Scheduled power cuts occur daily, and unscheduled outages persist throughout Cuba.
Many large businesses, hotels, hospitals, and institutions use generators during power outages. However, they may not be able to maintain their services should an extended outage occur as fuel available remains inconsistent. U.S. citizens in Cuba or planning to travel to Cuba should monitor local media for the latest information and plan accordingly.
Actions to Take:
- Review daily updates published by UNE (Unión Eléctrica) and follow UNE’s social media accounts.
- Monitor local media for updates.
- Stay in touch with family and friends.
- Prepare for prolonged power outages by:
- Keep mobile phones and portable battery banks charged
- Have flashlights and spare batteries in a location easy to access
- Stock up on nonperishable food and water
- Prepare for alternative methods of meeting your medical needs (medical devices requiring power, medicines requiring refrigeration, etc.)
- Enroll in step.state.gov to receive updates from the Embassy.
Assistance:
U.S. Embassy Havana, Cuba
Phone number: +(53) (7) 839-4100; after hours dial 1, then 0
Email address: acshavana@state.gov
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State Department – Consular Affairs phone number: +1-888-407-4747 or +1-202-501-4444
Cuba Country Information
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