Security Alert: U.S. Embassy Havana, Cuba (September 18, 2026)

Location:   Cuba

Event: As of 1:57 p.m. EST, Cuba experienced a total power failure due to a collapse of Cuba’s electrical grid. According to Cuban regime media, the reason for the collapse is under investigation and the timeline to restore power is unknown. All U.S. citizens in Cuba or planning to travel 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 in the past few months. 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.

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.
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 refrigeration, etc.)

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