The Austrian Armed Forces have been correct in their latest predictions on national security risks. For example, they have already predicted successfully a global pandemic, a terrorist attack in Vienna or cyber attacks. Now the threat is a large-scale electrical blackout.
Klaudia Tanner, Minister of Defense of Austria, has ensured that there is a high probability of an electrical blackout that will affect computers, mobile phones and even the light in the home. This blackout would occur throughout Europe. “The question is not whether there will be a big blackout, if not when“Tanner has declared.
The causes for a possible failure of the electrical system are many, from technical failures, overloads due to demand peaks, system maladjustments or even “extraterrestrial” causes: In 1989, millions of people were left in the dark in Québec, Canada due to a virulent solar or geomagnetic storm.
An “underestimated” danger
The minister has indicated that the blackout is “a real danger, but an underestimated one.” To inform about the possible and dramatic situation, an information campaign has been launched, with publicity in the media and the dissemination of more than six thousand posters distributed throughout the country with the title: “What to do when everything stops”.
These posters present a guide with objects to have at home in case this blackout materializes: fuel, candles, batteries, canned food or drinking water are some of the items that citizens should have when they electricity stops working throughout Europe.
In addition, the Austrian Army recommends having at home Sufficient reservations for the equivalent of two weeks of camping, as well as agreeing in advance with family and friends a meeting point and laying the foundations of a network of neighborhood cooperation. How likely is this? The Austrian Army already warned in 2017 of the risks of a pandemic that took place two years later.
One hundred Austrian barracks will be self-sufficient
And it is that Austria is serious. Therefore, starting in 2025, one hundred of its main military headquarters will be self-sufficient to the highest degree possible in terms of energy, fuel, clean water and food.
“A blackout is a threat with a great impact on society. And it is important that all emergency services, such as the police, ambulances or firefighters, keep running. In the event of a blackout, the main task of the Armed Forces is to supply and support other emergency organizations“Lieutenant Colonel Pierre Kugelweis told EFE.
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