Americans traveling to Cuba should anticipate significant disruptions due to a nationwide power outage that has crippled the island's electrical grid, according to the U.S. Embassy in Havana. This marks the sixth time the grid has failed in 2026, with three of these outages occurring in July alone.
Residents are enduring intense heat and a lack of air conditioning, with many seeking relief by sleeping outdoors near the water to escape temperatures that have felt as high as 106 degrees Fahrenheit, compounded by 80% humidity.
The U.S. Embassy advises American citizens in Cuba or those planning to travel to be aware of the situation and to plan accordingly. While U.S. law prohibits tourism to Cuba, certain categories of travel are permitted, including family visits, journalism, education, religious activities, humanitarian projects, and supporting the Cuban people. The Treasury Department's Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) oversees these exceptions.
A previous travel advisory from the State Department in May 2025 urged travelers to remain aware of their surroundings, avoid displaying wealth, and not to resist robbery attempts. The advisory also recommended that Americans bring portable battery banks, spare batteries, and nonperishable food and water, noting the issue of prolonged power outages.
Cuba has long grappled with an aging electrical grid, and recurrent fuel shortages have contributed to frequent blackouts. Cuban officials have pointed to U.S. sanctions as a factor worsening the energy crisis, though the specific cause of the latest collapse remains unknown, according to the U.S. Embassy in Havana.
Secretary of State Marco Rubio has previously characterized Cuba as an "espionage superpower" off the U.S. coast, highlighting geopolitical concerns. While not a major tourist destination, Cuba does attract international visitors, including Americans traveling under permitted categories.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.