Catalonia records 43 drowning deaths during 2026 summer season

The 2026 bathing season in Catalonia has concluded with a total of 43 drowning deaths, marking the highest number of fatalities since at least 2014. This figure represents an increase of 17 deaths compared to the previous year.

According to data from Protecció Civil, the fatalities occurred in various environments: 27 at beaches, 11 in swimming pools, and 5 in inland waters such as rivers and lakes. The Costa Daurada recorded 14 beach deaths, followed by the Costa Brava with 12, and the Costa Central with one.

Demographic data indicates that the majority of victims were over the age of 60, with 27 deaths in this age group. Among the beach fatalities, 22 were men and 5 were women. The season also saw 89 people injured in various drowning-related incidents.