Kuwait Faces Power Cuts Amid Summer Heat

DUBAI, United Arab Emirates — Kuwait has implemented rolling blackouts across several residential areas as the country grapples with soaring summer temperatures. The state-run KUNA news agency reported that the blackouts were a result of a “fuel supply disruption,” which has also affected the operation of desalination plants and certain power stations. On Sunday, temperatures in Kuwait were forecasted to reach a high of 43 degrees Celsius (109 degrees Fahrenheit). However, weather experts warned that the heat could feel as intense as 53 degrees Celsius (127 degrees Fahrenheit) due to humidity and other factors, exacerbating the already challenging living conditions for residents. The blackouts come at a particularly critical time, as the extreme heat places additional strain on the country’s energy resources. With air conditioning systems working overtime to combat the oppressive heat, the disruption in fuel supply has led to significant challenges in maintaining a stable power supply. As Kuwait navigates this crisis, residents are left to cope with the dual challenges of power outages and extreme weather, raising concerns about public health and safety in the oil-rich nation. The situation highlights the vulnerabilities in Kuwait's infrastructure, particularly during the peak summer months when energy demand is at its highest.