Iranians suffer from power blackouts during war and heatwave

Iran faces a deepening energy crisis as its power infrastructure buckles under the combined strain of military strikes and extreme heat. The collapse has disrupted daily life across the nation, from university operations to essential medical services. Students at major institutions have experienced exam cancellations when electronic platforms went offline, while residents dependent on medical equipment face life-threatening situations during blackouts.

The scale of infrastructure damage is substantial. According to the national electricity company's chief executive, the grid has lost 4,200 megawatts of capacity, with damage documented at more than 2,000 points throughout the network. Recent US military strikes on power generation facilities, including installations on Kish Island and distribution networks in southern ports, have compounded the crisis alongside technical failures triggered by extreme temperatures.

The situation represents a stark reversal from official assurances. Government leaders, including the energy minister, had promised reliable electricity supply throughout the summer before the escalation of military tensions. Instead, sporadic outages have become routine across Tehran and other major cities.

Civilian adaptation has become visible throughout the capital. Small business owners operate portable generators to preserve perishable goods, while traffic management has reverted to manual direction at major intersections. Hospitals have largely maintained operations through backup power systems, though surrounding neighbourhoods experience extended darkness. The disparity underscores how critical infrastructure receives priority while broader populations endure chronic shortages.