France Bans Alcohol at Music Festivals Amid Red Heatwave Alert

As a severe heatwave grips France, authorities have implemented a ban on alcohol consumption in public spaces under red alert conditions. This measure affects numerous events associated with the annual Fête de la Musique, a nationwide music festival drawing millions. The government's decision aims to mitigate the strain on emergency and healthcare services by reducing alcohol-related incidents and allowing medical staff to focus on vulnerable populations during the extreme temperatures.

Temperatures are forecast to soar, with predictions of 39C-40C in several regions, including the Paris area and Burgundy, and potentially reaching 41C in some locations. These extreme highs are part of a broader European heatwave, with temperatures significantly above seasonal averages. The peak is expected on Monday, with authorities warning of potential historic records being matched or broken.

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

The intense heat has already disrupted daily life across France, leading to the cancellation of dozens of train services and the suspension of school classes. Météo-France, the national weather service, has expressed uncertainty about the duration of the heatwave, which is estimated to impact approximately three-quarters of the population. In response to the sweltering conditions, authorities in Paris have extended the opening hours of parks and gardens, allowing residents and tourists to seek refuge during the night.

The Fête de la Musique, a tradition spanning over 40 years and always held on the summer solstice, typically attracts around two million attendees in Paris alone. This year, the celebrations are overshadowed by the urgent need to manage the public health risks associated with the record-breaking heat.

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to preserve emergency and healthcare services and allow medical staff to focus on caring for the most vulnerable