Cuba Grapples with Nationwide Blackout; Classes Suspended in Western Provinces

Cuba is facing a severe energy crisis following a nationwide blackout that occurred on Friday. As a result, the Cuban government has suspended classes in the western provinces of Pinar del Río, Artemisa, and Mayabeque due to the slow recovery of the National Electroenergetic System (SEN). Students in other regions are permitted to attend school without uniforms as an exception. The blackout has affected basic services like water and energy, prompting authorities to prioritize student safety and well-being. The Ministry of Energy and Mines (Minem) reports modest progress in restoring the SEN. Millions of Cubans remain without electricity, marking the fourth national blackout in less than six months. The power service remains unstable in cities like Havana, with constant interruptions. Six of the country's 20 thermal generation units have been restarted, including the Antonio Guiteras power plant, but are providing minimal power. As of midday, the country was generating 1,057 MW, less than half of the normal demand.