A massive power outage has struck southwest Berlin, leaving approximately 45,000 households and 2,200 commercial customers without electricity, telephone, and heating.
According to the network operator, the outage could last until Thursday, and authorities are investigating the incident as a possible deliberate attack on critical infrastructure, as reported by the German publication Bild.
Tens of thousands without power and heating in the midst of winter
The power outage began on Saturday morning and particularly affects the southwest of the German capital. Approximately 45,000 households are left without electricity and telephone, and heating systems in extensive areas are no longer functioning, at a time when Berlin is facing a severe winter episode.
In addition, around 2,200 commercial customers are affected, including companies, social institutions, care centers, and hospitals.
Investigation indicates a targeted attack on the electrical grid
Meanwhile, investigators have determined that the power outage was not accidental. According to information cited by Bild, a deliberately set fire behind a container led to the ignition of multiple electric cable routes, causing the widespread damage.
Police and firefighters are in a state of continuous intervention. Criminal investigators from the Criminal Investigation Office (LKA) have collected footprints discovered on a path along the water leading to the site of the attack. Snow traces have been collected and secured for analysis.
Security sources suggest that the perpetrators must have had detailed knowledge of the infrastructure to cause such consequential damage. Hypotheses being considered include left-wing extremism, but the possibility of a coordinated action by Russia against Ukraine's allies is not ruled out, according to the same sources.
Authorities: one of the most severe power outages in recent years
The regional Minister of Economy and Energy in the Berlin state of Franziska Giffey described the situation as extremely serious: "We are facing an exceptionally severe power outage affecting tens of thousands of households and businesses, including care units, hospitals, and numerous social institutions.
The scale is larger than the power outage in Adlershof in September 2025. Repair works are complex and hindered by weather conditions and frozen ground."
Severe cold: temperatures as low as minus 10 degrees
The situation is exacerbated by the cold wave gripping Berlin. Meteorologist Dominik Jung (wetter.net), quoted by Bild, warns that temperatures will continue to drop, with overnight lows reaching as low as minus 10 degrees Celsius or even lower. The German capital is facing persistent frost and repeated snowfall.
Emergency shelters and support points for the population
Local authorities in the Steglitz-Zehlendorf district, together with support organizations, are preparing emergency shelters. Sports halls and other buildings are set to be arranged, with exact locations to be communicated later.
Berlin firefighters have already opened three information and support points for the population. Over 350 firefighters, along with the Federal Agency for Technical Relief (THW) and other organizations, are mobilized.
Authorities are also considering the installation of emergency generators and heated tents in key locations in the affected neighborhoods.