Press Statement from APUA

The Antigua Public Utilities Authority (APUA) wishes to inform the public that an incident occurred earlier this evening during the Carnival Parade, resulting in an unexpected power outage affecting parts of St. John’s.

Preliminary investigations indicate that a music truck participating in the parade came into contact with a telecommunications cable.

The resulting tug placed considerable stress on a nearby utility pole, causing it to fracture and trigger an electrical fault. This led to a temporary disruption in electricity service in the surrounding area.

Due to high vehicular traffic in the city, APUA crews required an escort from the Royal Police Force of Antigua and Barbuda to access the affected location.

Upon arrival, they immediately began working to isolate the impacted section of the network and restore electricity to customers as swiftly and safely as possible. Restoration efforts are ongoing. Due to the complexity of the issue, further replacement of the pole will continue tomorrow, Sunday, July 27, 2025.

APUA strongly urges all drivers participating in parade routes to exercise caution around utility infrastructure. Additionally, riders on music and promotional trucks must remain extremely vigilant of energised overhead lines and take every precaution to avoid contact.

We regret any inconvenience caused and thank the public for their patience and understanding as we work to repair and fully restore services.