France Presses Ahead with Music Festivals Despite Extreme Heat

France is set to celebrate its annual Fête de la Musique on Sunday, with musicians filling street corners and rooftops, but the festivities are overshadowed by a severe heatwave. A record number of 35 departments, approximately one-third of the country, are under the highest red alert for extreme heat, with temperatures potentially soaring to 41C.

Authorities have implemented strict safety measures, including a ban on alcohol consumption and the deployment of 4,800 police officers and 2,500 firefighters in and around Paris. Gatherings along the Seine's banks are prohibited to prevent accidents. Despite the extreme conditions, celebrations will proceed in major cities like Paris, Lyon, and Strasbourg, though some smaller cities have cancelled their street events.

This year's heatwave affects an estimated 53 million people in France, with an additional 45 departments under an orange alert. The number of departments on red alert has surpassed the previous record set in July 2019. In response, the city of Nantes is offering free access to swimming pools and museums until the red alert period ends.