In late April 2025, parts of Southern Europe experienced a major power outage that disrupted daily life for many in Spain, Portugal, and parts of France. Alongside these blackouts, the world has seen increasingly erratic weather—early heatwaves, severe flooding, and intense winter storms—reminding us of the growing need for resilience. These events underscore the importance of knowing how to deal with unexpected power outages and food shortages. This guide offers practical tips to help you stay prepared and manage challenges like energy disruptions, extreme weather, and limited access to essential supplies.

POWER OUTAGES

Power outages can occur unexpectedly, disrupting essential services. Here’s how to stay prepared:

Emergency Kit Essentials

• Keep multiple flashlights and headlamps with extra batteries in accessible locations.
• Use battery-powered or manual radio to stay informed.
• Have at hand first-aid kit including bandages, antiseptics, pain relievers, and any necessary prescription medications.
• Invest in manual can opener to ensure you can open canned foods without electricity.
• Keep small denominations on hand, as ATMs and card readers may not work during outages.
• Store copies of identification, insurance policies, and medical records in a waterproof container.

Communication

• Keep mobile phones, tablets, and laptops fully charged.
• Invest in power banks or solar chargers to keep devices operational.
• Maintain a hard copy of important phone numbers in case digital devices fail.

Food and Water

• Stock up on items like canned goods, dried fruits, nuts, and energy bars.
• Store at least 4 litres of water per person per day for a minimum of three days.
• Use coolers with ice to preserve perishable foods during extended outages

Stay Informed

• Use your battery-powered radio to receive real-time information.
• Subscribe to local emergency notification systems for updates on power restoration and safety advisories.

Safety Measures

• Disconnect electronics to prevent damage from power surges when electricity is restored.
• If using a generator, operate it outdoors and away from windows to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning.
• Avoid candles and use battery-powered lighting instead of candles to reduce fire risk.

Additional Preparations

• Make sure you have a plan in place that includes where to meet and how to stay in touch with family and friends if you need to head out from home.
• Ensure you have food, water, and other necessities for your pets.
• Keep books, games, or puzzles available to pass the time during outages.

By proactively preparing for power outages, you can minimize disruptions and ensure the safety and comfort of your household during unexpected events.

EXTREME WEATHER

Extreme weather events—such as heatwaves, storms, floods, and cold snaps—are becoming more frequent and severe due to climate change. These events can disrupt daily life, damage infrastructure, and pose serious health risks, especially to vulnerable populations. Being prepared and proactive can significantly reduce their impact.

Practical Preparedness Tips

• Stay informed by subscribing to local meteorological services and emergency alert systems. Use apps or radios that provide real-time updates. The Travel Security Services, included in most of our plans, offer rapid reporting of threats and disruptions worldwide, complemented by insightful analysis. They also provide detailed risk intelligence and risk ratings for most countries and offer direct support in times of crisis or when security advice or assistance is needed.
• Secure Your Home by reinforcing windows and doors, trimming overhanging branches, and securing loose outdoor items to minimize damage during storms.
• Assemble a kit with essentials such as water, non-perishable food, medications, flashlight, batteries, and important documents.
• Develop a clear plan that includes evacuation routes, shelter locations, and communication strategies with family members.
• Keep your vehicle fueled and stocked with emergency supplies in case evacuation becomes necessary.

WATER SHORTAGES

Water scarcity can result from severe weather events, droughts, infrastructure issues, or increased demand. To prepare for and mitigate the impact of water shortages, consider the following strategies:

Water Storage and Emergency Supply

• Keep at least 4 litres of water per person per day for a minimum of three days, accounting for drinking and sanitation needs.
• Store water in clean, food-grade containers, and replace stored water every six months to ensure freshness.
• Have water purification tablets or filters on hand to treat water from alternative sources if necessary.

Alternative Water Sources

• Rainwater Harvesting: Where permitted, collect rainwater using barrels or tanks for non-potable uses like gardening or flushing toilets.
• Greywater Recycling: Reuse water from baths, sinks, or washing machines for irrigation, ensuring it’s free from harmful chemicals.

FOOD SHORTAGES

Severe weather events and disruptions in supply chains can lead to food shortages. To ensure food security, consider the following strategies:

Stockpile Wisely

• Include a variety of non-perishable items such as canned goods, grains, dried fruits, and nuts.
• Regularly check expiration dates and use older items first to maintain freshness.
• Having some favorite snacks or treats can boost morale during stressful times.
• Be flexible with meal planning: adapt recipes based on available ingredients to make the most of your supplies.
• Explore cooking methods that utilize pantry staples to expand your meal options.
• Start a home garden: cultivate herbs, vegetables, or fruits in your backyard or balcony to supplement your food supply.
• Participate in local gardening initiatives to share resources and knowledge.

Supporting Vulnerable Individuals

Certain groups, such as the elderly, people with disabilities, young children, and those with chronic

illnesses, may be more vulnerable during emergencies. Here’s how to assist them:

• Establish a schedule to check on vulnerable neighbors or family members, ensuring they have necessary supplies and support.
• Ensure elderly or disabled individuals have adequate food and water supplies and offer help with shopping or meal preparation.
• Provide information in formats suitable for people with hearing, vision, or cognitive impairments.
• Help arrange transportation for those who may need to evacuate but lack the means to do so.
• Ensure that individuals have an adequate supply of medications and that medical equipment is functional and has backup power if needed.
• Identify local centres that offer refuge during extreme circumstances and assist vulnerable individuals in accessing these facilities.
• Assist in community food programs to support others and help them to gain access to resources.

By implementing these measures, communities can better withstand difficult events and ensure that all members, especially the most vulnerable, have access to the essential resources and assistance.

We hope you’ll never face any unexpected situations, but by taking proactive steps, you can better protect yourself and your loved ones in unfortunate events, like power outages.