Power’s Out, No Internet, Now What?

The Moment Everything Went Dark

By Caroline Burke

There’s something oddly grounding about a blackout, especially when it happens far from home. I learned that firsthand while studying abroad in Spain this past semester, when, on April 28th, electricity was lost across Spain, Portugal, and parts of France in one of the Iberian Peninsula’s most significant power outages in history. There was no WiFi or lights, only silence and a collective pause that no one had prepared for. At first, everyone did the same thing: they checked their phones, hoping it was just a router issue. Then came the realization that it wasn’t just us.

See What’s Happening Around You

Usually, when the power goes out, we instinctively reach for our phones to find a solution. We check for service, scroll aimlessly, and wait for life to go back to normal. But when “normal” disappears for a while, something special happens. You get the chance to be fully present. The world slows down, and all that’s left are the people around you and the moments you create.

Light the Night

Start with the simplest comfort: light. Light a few candles or start a small fire in the fireplace or backyard pit. There is something about that soft, natural light that makes everyone slow down. It pulls people together, literally and emotionally, to bring out blankets, make hot chocolate or tea on the stove, and settle in. Tell stories, roast marshmallows, or just sit and talk. The warm fire has a way of making even the darkest night feel calm.

Unplugged Entertainment

Once you’re cozy, it’s time to replace screens with something slower and more hands-on. Board games and puzzles instantly bring people together in a way no TV show can. Monopoly, Scrabble, Clue, or even a simple deck of cards can turn an ordinary evening into a memorable night. If you don’t have any games on hand, make one up—“Would you rather?”—20 questions, or storytelling games where each person adds a line.

Embrace the Quiet

When’s the last time you sat in complete quiet? Without notifications, playlists, or background noise, you start to notice small details, such as the sounds of the wind or rain, the flow of conversations, and so on. Power outages remind us how rarely we give ourselves permission to slow down. Take a deep breath and enjoy it. These pauses can be unexpectedly grounding.

Reconnect in Real Life

The power will eventually return, the WiFi will reboot, and modern life will pick up again. But before the situation changes, take a moment to look around at the people you’re with. Appreciate how nice it feels to simply be together without distractions. Whether it’s laughter, quiet, or fun games, these are the memories that stick. Next time the power goes out, don’t rush to fix it, lean into it. Light a candle, grab a game, and enjoy the rare chance to unplug and reconnect with the world right in front of you.

Blackouts create a rare sense of togetherness. When the power goes out, people naturally drift outside, look around, and share moments. Take a short walk, sit on your porch or balcony, or talk to neighbors—everyone is experiencing this same pause. You might be surprised by how alive your surroundings feel when all the usual noise disappears.