Power shortages and “cold-weather” breakdowns: how Kyiv supermarkets are fighting for survival amid rumors of closures
13 January 15:59
Following the recent shelling in Kyiv, the power supply situation has sharply deteriorated. The city is experiencing a severe power shortage that is affecting not only residential areas but also business operations. Against this backdrop, some supermarkets have been forced to temporarily suspend operations or operate on a limited basis.
Mayor Vitali Klitschko spoke about the complexity of the situation, according to "Komersant Ukrainian".
Klitschko emphasized that energy workers are operating under extraordinary conditions, but restoring a stable power supply will take time.
Why are stores closing?
As retail chains explain, prolonged and frequent power outages, as well as low temperatures, lead to equipment malfunctions. In such cases, some supermarkets may temporarily suspend operations to restore technical systems and ensure safety.
The NOVUS chain reported that not all stores are currently able to operate as usual and urged shoppers to check the current operating schedule.
Silpo also confirmed that due to blackouts and cold weather, some supermarkets are occasionally forced to close, although on-site teams are working to resume operations as quickly as possible.
What the city authorities are saying
At the same time, Vitali Klitschko emphasized that this is not a mass closure of retail chains. According to him, reports of a complete shutdown of large supermarkets are untrue, and businesses, despite the difficult conditions, continue to supply the city with essential goods.
City authorities and retail chains are urging Kyiv residents to check the operating status of specific stores through official channels and to prepare for temporary disruptions in infrastructure operations.
What’s the situation with heat supply in the city
In addition to power outages, the situation with heat supply in the capital remains tense— about 500 high-rise buildings are without heating. Repair crews and utility workers are working around the clock.
