A widespread power outage struck the Cannes region on Saturday morning, coinciding with the final day of the world-renowned film festival, though organisers confirmed the closing ceremony would proceed as scheduled.
The blackout began shortly after 10:00 am (0800 GMT) and was reportedly caused by a fire at an electrical substation in the nearby village of Tanneron, which police believe may have been started deliberately. Officials speaking to AFP on condition of anonymity suggested arson as the likely cause.
French grid operator RTE reported that around 160,000 homes in Cannes and its surrounding areas were left without electricity.
Despite the disruption, festival organisers reassured the public that they had switched to a backup power supply, allowing all planned events and screenings to continue, including the much-anticipated closing ceremony.
The power cut caused traffic chaos in the glamorous coastal city as traffic lights went down, and several shops along one of Cannes’ main streets were forced to shut. Some morning film screenings were temporarily paused during the transition to generator power.
After nearly two weeks of red carpet glamour and politically charged speeches, French actress Juliette Binoche and her jury are due to reveal the festival’s top award winners at the closing ceremony, which will begin at 1640 GMT.
