The 1996 Western North America blackouts were two widespread power outages that occurred across Western Canada, the Western United States, and on July 2 and August 10, 1996. They were spread 6 weeks apart and were thought to be similarly caused by excess demand during a hot summer. Though affecting millions, the blackouts were largely an inconvenience, and not emergencies. On both occasions airport operations continued, and power was restored within minutes or hours. The blackouts raised concerns about the then-recent debates about deregulating electricity utilities.