Torrential downpours have unleashed devastating flash floods across southern and eastern Spain, resulting in one confirmed fatality and leaving two individuals missing. The severe weather event over the weekend caused rivers to overflow, sweeping away vehicles and prompting urgent rescue operations.
Deadly Flooding in Southern Spain
In the province of Malaga, emergency services recovered the body of a man in his 50s. The victim was found after the van he was traveling in was caught and carried away by the raging waters of the Fahala river near the town of Alhaurin el Grande. A second passenger from the same vehicle remains unaccounted for as search efforts continue. Meanwhile, in Granada, rescue teams are scouring a riverbed for a young person who disappeared after being swept away while attempting to cross on a motorcycle.
Other Major Global Headlines
Beyond the Spanish floods, several significant events unfolded globally on Sunday, December 29.
Guinea's Pivotal Presidential Election
Guinea witnessed a historic moment as citizens cast their votes in the nation's first presidential election since the 2021 military coup. The poll marks the end of a four-year transition period initiated after General Mamadi Doumbouya ousted former President Alpha Condé. Doumbouya is considered the frontrunner, facing eight other candidates in an election held under a new constitution. This constitution, approved in a September referendum, notably removed the ban on military leaders running for office and extended the presidential term from five to seven years.
Israel Deploys Groundbreaking Laser Defence
In a landmark development for military technology, the Israeli defence ministry officially handed over the world's first operational high-power laser defence system, named "Iron Beam," to the Air Force. Developed by Rafael Advanced Defense Systems, the 100-kilowatt laser is designed to intercept threats like rockets, mortars, and drones at the speed of light. Defence Minister Israel Katz hailed the system as a "monumental achievement" set to transform aerial defence strategies.
FBI Intensifies Fraud Probe in Minnesota
FBI Director Kash Patel announced a significant surge of personnel and resources to Minnesota to combat large-scale fraud schemes targeting federal programs. Patel clarified that this escalation predated recent social media reports, linking it to ongoing investigations like the Feeding Our Future case, which uncovered a $250 million fraud involving pandemic-era child food aid. That investigation has so far led to 78 indictments and 57 convictions.
Fatal Mid-Air Helicopter Collision in New Jersey
A tragic accident occurred in Hammonton, New Jersey, when two helicopters collided mid-air on Sunday morning. The crash, which took place around 11:25 am near Basin Road, resulted in one fatality and left another person critically injured. First responders arrived to find one helicopter fully engulfed in flames and the second in a nearby wooded area.
