03.44 - Spain Today News 8 October 2026

🇪🇸 Spain Today News — Daily Summary (8 October 2026)1. Severe Weather and Flood Fatalities in CataloniaThree people have died in Catalonia following days of torrential rainfall, and rescue workers continue searching for two missing individuals. The third victim, a 43-year-old man, was discovered in a flooded road tunnel in Les Franqueses del Vallès. Regional firefighters have carried out nearly 4,000 emergency calls, rescuing dozens of motorists trapped in flooded vehicles. Commuter train service on the Rodalies network was temporarily halted after drivers refused to run trains over damaged tracks, before service gradually resumed. Heavy rainfall and orange storm alerts have now moved toward northern regions, including Asturias and Cantabria.2. Passing of Housing Activism Icon Maricarmen AbascalMaricarmen Abascal, the 87-year-old woman who became a national symbol for housing rights following her eviction from her Madrid home of 70 years, has passed away in hospital. Her eviction on 23 September triggered nationwide protests, an ongoing encampment at Puerta del Sol, and intense parliamentary debate over executive housing decrees. Activists, citizens, and political leaders across the spectrum expressed their condolences while pledging to continue campaigning for housing affordability in her memory.3. Trade Unions Call General Strike for 11 NovemberMajor trade unions CCOO and UGT, alongside the Sindicato de Inquilinas and regional unions, have called a national general strike for 11 November 2026. The strike demands higher wages, reduced working hours, safer workplaces, and urgent action against housing speculation and rising living costs. Employer associations and opposition political leaders have criticized the call, alleging that it is politically motivated ahead of the upcoming 29 November general election.4. Rosalía Awarded National Current Music Prize 2026Singer and composer Rosalía has won the 2026 National Current Music Prize, awarded by the Ministry of Culture alongside a 30,000-euro award. The jury highlighted the artistic significance and global reach of her album LUX (2025), recorded with the London Symphony Orchestra and featuring collaborations with international artists.