France has banned the sale and consumption of alcohol at public events during the annual Fête de la Musique celebrations, as an intense heatwave pushes temperatures towards 40C in many parts of the country. The measure applies to all areas placed under the highest level of heatwave alert, covering roughly one-third of France.
Government Cites Need to Preserve Emergency Services
The office of Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu announced that for all events organised by the state and its agencies, instructions have been given not to offer alcohol. The government said the restrictions were needed “to preserve emergency and healthcare services and allow medical staff to focus on caring for the most vulnerable.”
Record Temperatures Expected
Temperatures of between 39C and 40C are forecast from the south-west through the Paris region and into Burgundy on Sunday, with some areas possibly reaching 41C. Forecasters expect temperatures to peak on Monday, with officials warning that conditions could approach historic records. The extreme heat is estimated to affect around three-quarters of the country’s population.
Heatwave Disrupts Daily Life
The hot weather has already forced the cancellation of dozens of train services and led to the suspension of classes in some areas. In Paris, authorities are keeping parks and gardens open throughout the night to help residents and tourists escape the heat. France’s national weather service, Météo-France, said it remained “uncertain” how long the heatwave would last.
Fête de la Musique Draws Millions
Fête de la Musique, one of France’s largest cultural celebrations, has been held for more than 40 years and takes place every year on the summer solstice. Around two million people attended events across the French capital last year. The alcohol ban is expected to affect hundreds of thousands of attendees in the red-alert zones.
