Cuba plunged into near-total darkness after the country's electrical grid shut down on Friday morning.
According to a statement from the energy ministry, the blackout occurred after the Antonio Guiteras thermoelectric plant in Matanzas Province went offline.
The extensive power outage has disrupted daily life for Cubans, with only a few hotels and restaurants equipped with small generators able to maintain normal lighting and operations.
Following the power outage, the state grid initiated emergency repairs and gradually restored electricity by deploying small power supply systems across the country.
Airport services and medical facilities were not affected by the blackout.
Due to U.S. sanctions, Cuba has faced long-standing difficulties importing fuel and maintaining its aging power generating facilities, leading to a nationwide strained electricity supply.
Nationwide blackout strikes Cuba after major power plant failure
Fuzhou, the capital of southeast China's Fujian Province, launched a cross-strait cultural carnival during the May Day holiday, attracting visitors from both sides of the Taiwan Strait to revel in the festivities.
The carnival unfolded at a historical and cultural block in Lianjiang County, Fuzhou, where an array of performances highlighted local culture and the deep ties across the Strait, serving as a rich cultural feast for holidaymakers.
"Strolling through the ancient streets, with the old buildings on both sides and intangible heritage performances all around, it feels like traveling back in time. It also reminds you that people on both sides of the Strait share the same roots and the same cultural lineage," said Zhang Chuanzhen, a Taiwan compatriot.
In addition to stage performances, the block also featured intangible cultural heritage displays, cultural and creative markets, and hands-on craft experience activities. The immersive and interactive setting invited visitors to explore the history, take in the scenery, and savor the culture.
"We are dedicated to allowing everyone to experience the breadth and depth of Chinese culture, and to strengthen the sense of shared cultural identity across the Strait. Going forward, Lianjiang County will continue to innovate forms of cultural exchanges and build a bridge for heart-to-heart communication between compatriots on both sides of the Strait, especially among the younger generations," said Ren Yong, director of the Lianjiang County Cultural Center.
Fujian holds May Day holiday cultural carnival to entertain visitors across Taiwan Strait
