Monkey Causes Nationwide Blackout in Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka faced a nationwide power outage on February 9, 2025, leaving millions without electricity for several hours. The disruption occurred around 11:30 a.m. local time when a monkey entered a substation near Colombo and made contact with a grid transformer, causing a system-wide imbalance.
Energy Minister Kumara Jayakody stated, “A monkey has come in contact with our grid transformer, causing an imbalance in the system.”
Impact of the Power Outage
The blackout paralyzed daily life across the country. In the capital, Colombo, non-functioning traffic signals caused significant congestion. Hospitals were forced to rely on backup generators to continue critical operations, while businesses and households struggled without electricity.
The transport sector was also affected, with train services facing delays and airports shifting to emergency power sources. Citizens expressed frustration over the disruption, highlighting the growing need for a more resilient power grid.
Response from Authorities
Following the incident, the Ceylon Electricity Board (CEB) launched an investigation into how the monkey accessed the substation and is considering preventive measures, such as installing protective barriers and improving security at power facilities. Officials emphasized the importance of safeguarding infrastructure against similar disruptions in the future.
Sri Lanka’s History of Power Outages
Power outages are not uncommon in Sri Lanka, particularly during economic downturns. In 2022, the country faced frequent blackouts due to an energy crisis, leading to mass protests that contributed to the resignation of then-President Gotabaya Rajapaksa.
Recurring power failures have raised concerns over the stability of the nation’s electrical grid. Experts suggest that infrastructure modernization and better resource management are necessary to prevent similar incidents.
Global Instances of Animal-Induced Power Cuts
While unusual, animal-related power outages have been reported in other countries. In 2016, Kenya suffered a nationwide blackout after a monkey interfered with equipment at a power station. Squirrels, birds, and other animals have also been known to cause major disruptions in electrical grids worldwide.
Conclusion
The recent power outage in Sri Lanka underscores the vulnerability of the country’s energy infrastructure. As authorities work on preventive measures, ensuring a stable and secure power supply remains a critical priority.
