Medina del Campo, Spain – A massive power outage that struck the Iberian Peninsula on Monday led to the evacuation of 480 passengers from a train stranded near Toro, in Zamora province.

The train was forced to stop mid-journey when electrical systems failed. Without warning, 400 of the 480 passengers were transported by bus to Medina del Campo.

Mayor Guzmán Gómez said the town was caught by surprise. Local authorities had no prior information about the operation. Bus drivers could not continue the journey due to driving time limits, leaving passengers confused and stranded.

Emergency services including the Guardia Civil, national and local police, and town council members quickly mobilized. Many passengers were disoriented and tired. Volunteers and officials helped manage the situation throughout the evening.

Meanwhile, the blackout disrupted communication, traffic signals, and industrial operations. Several residents were trapped in elevators. The local hospital operated on emergency generators.

The municipal team also powered a senior residence using a shared generator. Elderly residents remained calm, making the best use of daylight near windows.

The hospital continued functioning without serious incidents. Mayor Gómez praised local response efforts but criticized the central government’s lack of communication during the emergency.

He said the event showed both a lack of national preparedness and the strong commitment of local services and residents in a crisis.

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