The hum of power generators running during rolling blackouts in Ukrainian cities is ever-present. One resident said they're so loud, they cannot hear the person next to them - but for others, they symbolize life going on.

Kyiv

Russian forces have invaded Ukraine from land, air and sea with strikes causing widespread damage. Global leaders have condemned the move and imposed sanctions.

Ukraine Invasion

Ukrainian cities are now filled with the sound of power generators as ongoing attacks on the country's energy infrastructure have caused frequent blackouts. Many residents and businesses depend on generators to maintain daily life during emergency power cuts.

While some people find the noise disruptive, others, like Kyiv doctor Nadia Ntila, view it positively as a sign of resilience and survival. The widespread use of generators has become a crucial adaptation for Ukrainians amid continued disruptions to the national power grid.

Humming generators have become Ukraine's blackout soundtrack

The hum of power generators in Ukrainian cities has become the natural soundtrack. During blackouts it has replaced life's familiar noises with a single, relentless whirr. At certain hours they drown out the clang of trams, the rhythm of traffic and the laughter from playgrounds. In recent months, Russian forces have sharply escalated attacks on Ukraine's gas and energy infrastructure. They have struck both power plants and transmission systems. It has meant citizens in many regions have been facing rolling blackouts. Emergency power cuts and generators have become lifelines for many Ukrainians and businesses. While some describe the noise as loud and annoying, for Kyiv doctor Nadia Ntila it's positive. It doesn't bother me at all when I wake up early and hear the generator humming. I feel happy because it means I'm alive and able to hear it. Another Kyiv resident said even in spite of the din, it's far better to have them than go without.

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Humming generators have become Ukraine's blackout soundtrack

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Ukraine Invasion