45,000 homes lose power in Berlin after suspected arson fire

Up to 45,000 households in Berlin are without electricity after a suspected arson fire.

A fire on a bridge near the Teltow Canal in south-west Berlin damaged high-voltage cables, leaving around 45,500 homes and 2,200 businesses without power. Authorities say some households may also lose heating amid freezing temperatures and snow.

Emergency services responded quickly, deploying 160 officers and providing emergency power to hospitals and care facilities. Stromnetz Berlin said repairs are complex and forecasted power restoration by Thursday afternoon.

Fire officials are investigating the blaze as a possible arson attack. Local residents were urged to stay with relatives, limit mobile phone use, and keep torches ready.

Berlin Senator for Economic Affairs Franziska Giffey described the outage as “particularly serious,” affecting care facilities, hospitals, social institutions, and businesses.

Authorities said cold weather and technical challenges are slowing repair work. Officials warned that mobile services and landlines might also be impacted.

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