A popular Greek island destination was left without electricity after a power outage struck Argostoli, the capital of Kefalonia, with authorities investigating whether a cruise ship's anchor may have damaged an underwater power cable.

According to the Hellenic Electricity Distribution Network Operator (HEDNO), the blackout began around 4:30 p.m. local time on May 4, and lasted approximately an hour in central Argostoli, with additional disruptions reported in surrounding areas.

Local media outlets, including Kefaloniapress, released a photo of the cruise ship believed to be the Celestyal Journey at the moment the alleged incident occurred, suggesting that the ship's anchor may have damaged a power cable during maneuvers.

Divers were sent to assess the extent of the damage, and HEDNO confirmed that a significant fault was found in the submarine cable. Crews managed to temporarily restore power by rerouting electricity through an alternative supply line by 5:30 p.m. However, officials warn that full repairs will require specialized intervention and could take several days to complete.

Submarine cables are critical infrastructure, and incidents involving anchor damage are not unprecedented. The International Cable Protection Committee (ICPC) notes that accidental anchor drags have caused significant disruptions in the past, including a 2008 incident off Sicily where a ship dragged its anchor for 300 kilometers, damaging six submarine cables.

As of now, Greek maritime authorities have not issued official statements regarding the incident. HEDNO continues to monitor the situation, and further investigations are underway to determine the exact cause and prevent similar occurrences in the future.