Tunisia's Heatwave Power Cuts: President Blames Sabotage, Utilities Blame the Heat

On August 27, 2026, Tunisia hit 49.8°C. Rolling power cuts stopped water pumps in Mahdia and Sfax. The electricity company said the grid was overloaded; the water company said pumps need power to work. President Saied blamed "premeditated acts" — no officials confirmed this. August 20 protests showed rising anger at his leadership.