Heavy rains in Spain’s Valencia region have caused deadly floods, leaving at least 95 people dead and towns in ruin. In just eight hours, areas like Utiel and Chiva saw a year’s worth of rain, causing the Magro River to overflow and sweep away cars, debris, and trash through the streets. Many residents were trapped in their homes, with some elderly people unable to escape. “We were trapped like rats,” said Utiel’s mayor, Ricardo Gabaldón. Spain’s government has deployed military units to assist with rescue efforts and declared three days of national mourning. Officials say these intense storms are worsened by climate change.

The Taliban in Afghanistan have issued a new rule prohibiting women from allowing their voices to be heard by other women while praying or reciting the Quran. Khalid Hanafi, the Taliban's minister for virtue, stated that even women praying aloud must not let others hear them, adding that activities like singing are also forbidden. The ban reflects the Taliban's strict interpretation of Islamic laws, which they have intensified since 2021. Women’s voices, considered “awrah,” or private, should not be heard in public or even by other women, according to Taliban officials. This is the latest in a series of restrictions on Afghan women.

Doctors in Kolkata, led by the West Bengal Junior Doctors’ Forum, held a torch rally from the West Bengal Medical Council to the CBI office in Salt Lake. They urged the CBI to speed up its investigation into the rape and murder of a 31-year-old trainee doctor at RG Kar Hospital, with the next hearing set for November 4. Protests began soon after the incident in August, including a hunger strike by junior doctors, which ended after a meeting with Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee. Support for the march also came from senior doctors and civil society groups.

Rishi Sunak, the UK’s first British Asian Prime Minister, stepped down as Opposition Leader on Wednesday, marking his last session in Parliament. “I became leader of my party during Diwali, and I now stand down during that same festival,” Sunak reflected, connecting Diwali to key moments in his career. Appointed during Diwali in 2022, Sunak lit diyas with his family outside 10 Downing Street, honoring his heritage. Prime Minister Keir Starmer praised Sunak’s work and dedication, calling him an inspiration for Britain’s diversity. Sunak hinted he’ll be spending more time in Yorkshire as a Member of Parliament.

Ayodhya celebrated Deepotsav 2024 with grandeur, marking the first Diwali since the consecration of the Ram Temple. Two Guinness World Records were set: one for the largest diya rotation, and another for lighting 2,512,585 oil lamps along the Sarayu River, creating a stunning view. Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath led the celebrations, pulling a chariot with artists portraying Lord Ram, Sita, and Lakshman. The event included 18 tableaux and a flower shower from helicopters. Adityanath called Ayodhya’s transformation a "historic" moment and honored those who dedicated their lives to the Ram Janmabhoomi movement.

The Punjab and Haryana High Court has condemned Punjab Police for giving gangster Lawrence Bishnoi a “studio-like” setup for a 2022 jail interview, saying it glorified crime. The court criticized police officials for enabling the interview using official resources and ordered a fresh inquiry. Seven officers have been suspended, though the court expressed frustration over limited action against senior officials. The court stressed that the widely viewed interview could negatively influence young minds. Bishnoi, involved in 71 criminal cases, is a key suspect in the murder of singer Sidhu Moose Wala.

Russian court has fined Google an enormous $2.5 decillion for not restoring access to certain Russian state-backed media on YouTube. The fine, more than the world's entire economy, stems from Google’s refusal to unblock pro-Kremlin channels banned due to U.S. sanctions. The penalty will double daily if unpaid after nine months. Google’s revenue in 2023 was $307 billion, making it unlikely to cover this amount. Following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, Google had restricted Russian media to limit misinformation. The tech giant has filed counter-suits, calling the ruling excessive and unjust.

South Korea’s military intelligence says North Korea is set to conduct a nuclear test and may soon launch a long-range missile capable of reaching the United States. This would be North Korea’s seventh nuclear test, likely at Punggye-ri’s test site. Preparations for an intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) launch are also in progress, with a launch vehicle deployed. South Korea estimates around 11,000 North Korean troops are now in Russia, with some nearing combat zones. Tensions are rising, as North Korean leader Kim Jong Un continues to show off his military power, increasing concerns for neighboring countries and the U.S.

The UK has confirmed its first case of mpox clade Ib, a new virus strain spreading in Africa. The individual, who returned from an affected area on October 21, developed flu-like symptoms and a rash before testing positive. They are now being treated at London’s Royal Free Hospital. Health officials are tracing close contacts to prevent any spread. The UK Health Security Agency says the risk to the public is low, but investigations are ongoing. This strain, first seen in the Democratic Republic of Congo, can cause severe illness, and the UK recently ordered extra vaccine doses for protection.

Flash floods in southeast Spain have left at least 72 dead, with emergency teams continuing to search for missing people. King Felipe VI highlighted “enormous destruction,” noting that access to some communities remains challenging. Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez announced a three-day mourning period, pledging, "We won’t abandon you," and promised swift infrastructure rebuilding. Social media footage shows floodwaters sweeping cars through streets, leaving people stranded on trees, while false information circulates about Valencia's water safety. Local authorities have urged caution. Key areas like Valencia, Seville, and Barcelona remain at high risk from ongoing rain.