Massive blackout hits Belgorod, thousands of Russians left in darkness
Illustrative photo: Russians reported a missile strike (Getty Images)
In Belgorod, Russia, a massive blackout occurred on the evening of November 8, leaving at least 20,000 residents without power. Russians reported what they claim was a missile strike, according to Russian media.
The attack targeted the Luch thermal power plant in the city. The strike damaged gas turbine units at the plant, causing them to stop working. The Luch plant supplies electricity to Belgorod and nearby settlements.
Parts of Belgorod remain without power. Governor of the Belgorod region Vyacheslav Gladkov said more than 20,000 people are affected. He also claimed that Russian air defenses "intercepted" the aerial targets and blamed "debris" for the situation.
Blackouts in Belgorod
Belgorod, one of the Russian cities closest to Ukraine, has regularly been involved in Russian attacks on Ukrainian energy infrastructure.
On October 5, Russians reported a missile strike on the Luch substation in Belgorod. The attack caused a fire at the substation and widespread power outages in most city districts.
In the early hours of October 6, the governor said nearly 40,000 residents were left without electricity. Earlier that same day, parts of the city had also lost power following another strike.
Belgorod was hit again by a missile attack on October 11. The Luch thermal power plant was damaged, leaving most city districts without electricity. On October 13, the city experienced another strike. Preliminary reports indicated that turbines at the Belgorod plant were destroyed, causing a complete shutdown.
