Ukraine introduced emergency electricity shutdowns across several regions on January 31, with effects felt in the capital. Voltage problems in Kyiv prompted water supply disruptions and a temporary suspension of the metro.
Regional utilities reported that as of 11:00, hourly outage schedules were scrapped in parts of the country in favor of emergency shutoffs. At minimum, Zhytomyr, Chernihiv and Sumy regions were affected.
Chernihivoblenergo said that, on the instruction of Ukrenergo (state-owned electricity transmission system operator), the region simultaneously activated 10 stages of its emergency outage schedule. The utility said the regime will continue until a further order from the grid dispatcher.
Sumyoblenergo announced emergency schedules for consumer groups 1–5 across the region. The company cited damage to the power system from Russian military attacks. It also noted that emergency outage schedules do not match the regular hourly schedules.
Zhytomyroblenergo likewise confirmed emergency shutoffs on January 31. Previously published schedules are not currently valid. Consumers were advised to unplug equipment sensitive to voltage fluctuations to avoid damage and to understand that the restrictions aim to stabilize the grid.
DTEK said Ukrenergo ordered emergency outages in Kyiv, as well as in Kyiv, Dnipropetrovsk and Odesa regions.
Kharkivoblenergo said hourly outage schedules remain in force in the region due to enemy shelling but warned the grid situation is challenging. “Energy workers are aware of the current situation and are taking all necessary steps. Please be patient. Thank you for your understanding,” the notice said.
Power and water supply disruptions were reported in Kyiv and the surrounding region. According to city Telegram channels, the metro temporarily halted operations due to reduced voltage, stopping trains and escalators.
At the time the first reports appeared, the Kyiv Metro press service did not comment. Later, the Kyiv City State Administration confirmed the suspension of train service and escalators due to the loss of voltage from external power sources. Officials said they would announce the resumption of service separately.
Kharkiv also reported metro problems on January 31. The Kharkiv Metro Telegram channel announced a temporary suspension of train service on all lines for technical reasons and promised to provide a separate update on restoration.
Roughly half an hour later, the operator said service had resumed on the Kholodnohirsko–Zavodska Line, with trains running at extended intervals of about 25–30 minutes.
Overnight into January 31, severe weather across most of Odesa region caused line breaks and damage to power infrastructure, leading to widespread outages.
Focus also reported that expert Ruslan Chernyi advised Ukrainians to prepare for potential emergency blackouts in the coming days as a deep freeze approaches, warning that wires can snap due to icing.
