U.S. citizens traveling to or currently in Cuba should prepare for significant disruptions due to the country’s ongoing blackout crisis. The U.S. Embassy in Havana reported a complete power failure caused by the collapse of Cuba’s electrical grid.

Current Situation

This recent blackout is Cuba’s sixth nationwide grid failure in 2026, with three incidents occurring in July alone. The heat is unbearable for residents, with many resorting to sleeping near water bodies to cool down. As reported by The Associated Press, temperatures reached 93 degrees Fahrenheit on Sunday, but the high humidity of 80% made it feel like 106 degrees.

Impact on Travel

Despite not being a primary tourist destination, Cuba still draws visitors worldwide, including Americans. U.S. law prohibits Americans from traveling to Cuba solely for tourism. However, travel is allowed for specific reasons such as family visits, journalism, education, religious activities, humanitarian projects, and support for the Cuban people, as outlined by the Treasury Department’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC).

Travel Advisory

The State Department previously advised Americans in May 2025 about the challenges in Cuba, including staying aware of surroundings and cautioning against displaying wealth, like wearing expensive watches or jewelry. The advisory suggested carrying portable battery banks, spare batteries, and nonperishable food and water, given the persistent power outages.

Causes of the Crisis

Cuba’s ongoing energy crisis is partly due to its aging electrical grid and recurrent fuel shortages. Although the Cuban government also attributes the situation to U.S. sanctions, the exact cause of the latest blackout and the timeline for power restoration remain unknown.

The U.S. Embassy in Havana suggests that the reasons for the collapse are unclear, though Cuban media acknowledge an unknown timeline for resolving the issue.