Dozens of neighborhoods across Athens and the wider Attica region were hit by power cuts on Wednesday evening, causing traffic disruption and leaving some residents trapped in elevators as temperatures climbed to 40C.

Outages were reported in Kolonaki, Halandri, Holargos, Dioni, Spata, Argyroupoli and Alimos, with traffic lights failing in several areas and creating significant congestion.

Greece’s electricity distribution network operator, HEDNO (DEDDIE), said repair crews were working to restore power across the affected areas.

According to the operator’s latest update, electricity was expected to be restored by 7 p.m. in Loutsa, Pikermi and Spata; by 6:30 p.m. in Metamorfosi, Neo Iraklio, Nea Ionia and Menidi; and by 6 p.m. in Zografou, Gyzi, Exarchia, Kolonaki and Kypseli.

HEDNO said its technicians remain on site and continue working to fully restore electricity supply to all affected areas.

Power outages are not uncommon in Athens during the summer, particularly during periods of extreme heat when electricity demand surges as air-conditioning use increases. Temperatures in the capital reached 40C on Wednesday.

Residents can check the latest information on outages and restoration progress through HEDNO’s online fault and outage service.