Austria’s Detailed Plan in Case of a Nationwide Power Outage

A recent power outage hit parts of Spain, Portugal, Andorra, and southern France.

The event left thousands without electricity and raised serious concerns.

More countries are now taking a closer look at how prepared they are for a total blackout.

A blackout doesn’t just mean no lights. It affects almost everything. Phones stop working.

So does the internet. ATMs and card payments don’t work. Gas stations shut down. Traffic lights fail.

Public transport stops. Even water and heating systems can be affected. Without power, daily life changes quickly and dramatically.

In Austria, the government has been preparing for this kind of crisis. For three years, the Ministry of Defense has worked on a public awareness campaign, reports Ziare.

The result is a guide called “Blackout und dann?”, which means “Blackout, and then?” It tells people what to do if the power goes out across the country.

Some of the key recommendations are simple but important. People are advised to store enough water—two liters per person per day—for at least three to five days.

They should also keep non-perishable food like pasta, rice, and canned goods for two weeks. Tea or coffee is also suggested.

Medical supplies are another priority. Everyone should have at least two weeks’ worth of any necessary medication.

Flashlights, batteries, candles, and matches are also on the list. So is a basic first aid kit.

Warm clothes and blankets are recommended too. People are told to keep their car’s fuel tank at least half full at all times.

Austrian authorities also suggest setting up a meeting point with family members. If phone lines go down, this helps everyone reconnect.

Neighbors are encouraged to cooperate and support each other. Sharing resources can make a big difference in a difficult moment.

In contrast, Romania does not have a national plan for such a scenario. Some city halls and emergency services have issued basic guides in the past.

But so far, there is no official nationwide strategy for how to manage a full-scale power outage.