France Bans Alcohol at Festivals as Heatwave Raises Risks

France is implementing an alcohol ban at music festivals in regions facing a severe heatwave alert, as the nation prepares for its annual Fete de la Musique celebrations. The Prime Minister's office announced the consumption of alcohol would be prohibited in departments under a red heatwave warning from noon on Sunday.

This decision follows a crisis meeting convened by Prime Minister Sebastien Lecornu, with instructions issued for state-organized events not to serve alcohol. The national weather service, Meteo France, issued its highest-level red alert for 35 departments, including Paris, forecasting temperatures potentially reaching 41 degrees Celsius on Sunday and even higher, between 37 and 42 degrees Celsius, on Monday.

The extreme heatwave conditions are comparable to those experienced in July 2019 and August 2003, the latter of which tragically resulted in over 14,800 deaths, primarily among the elderly. The Fete de la Musique, a major event drawing millions, has also seen increased safety measures implemented after syringe-related safety concerns were reported last year. Authorities have established designated safe spaces for women and individuals with disabilities at key festival locations.

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For all events organized by the state and its agencies, instructions have been given not to offer alcohol.