Global News Roundup: Storms, Scandals, and Nostalgia Dominate Headlines
February 4, 2026 - A diverse range of events captured global attention today, ranging from severe weather in Spain to a royal scandal in Norway and a surprising Olympic torch appearance in Italy. Meanwhile, Nintendo released a new Virtual Boy.
In Norway, Marius Borg Hoiby, 29, the eldest son of Crown Princess Mette-Marit, appeared in court to face 38 charges, including rape and domestic violence. According to Sky News, Hoiby denied that videos found on his phone depicted acts of rape. He broke down during his testimony, stating that his mother's position as Crown Princess led to "an extreme need for affirmation." The outcome of the trial could result in a lengthy prison sentence if he is found guilty of the most serious charges.
Spain is reeling from the impact of Storm Leonardo, which brought torrential rain and widespread flooding to Andalucía. Euronews reported that approximately 3,000 people were evacuated from Cádiz, Jaén, and Málaga. Roads were impassable, and homes were inundated with water. High-speed train services were suspended, and schools were closed in most areas, with the exception of Almería. Red alerts were issued for Grazalema, Ronda, and the Strait of Gibraltar, where rainfall was predicted to reach up to 150 liters per square meter. Rivers in at least 19 areas reached critical levels, prompting emergency crews and residents to work together to bail water from homes in affected mountain towns.
In Bulgaria, prosecutors launched a criminal investigation into the secret filming of women at beauty salons. Marina Stoimenova of Euronews reported that hundreds of women were filmed without their knowledge or consent during intimate cosmetic procedures, such as laser hair removal, with the footage then distributed on pornographic websites. Victims include minors as young as 15, public figures, a judge, a prosecutor, journalists, daughters of a regional governor and a police officer. Some of the recordings date back to 2023.
Meanwhile, in Italy, Snoop Dogg made a surprise appearance at the Olympic torch relay in Gallarate, near Milan. Euronews reported that the rapper jogged, danced, and waved to crowds as he carried the flame from Via Pegoraro to Piazza Libertà. Dressed in the official white kit, Snoop Dogg, who is part of NBC's Olympic team for Milano Cortina 2026, emerged from the crowd and entertained onlookers with his relaxed jog and dance moves. He was previously part of the Paris 2024 Olympics.
Finally, Nintendo released a new version of the Virtual Boy. Charles Pulliam-Moore of The Verge noted that the Switch peripheral is "more fun to look at than to play." While praising the build quality and nostalgic appeal, Pulliam-Moore suggested that the games are "too stuck in the past." The original Virtual Boy was a commercial and critical failure, but its infamy has contributed to its enduring appeal.
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