French authorities have prohibited the consumption of alcohol at state-sponsored music festival events as the nation grapples with a dangerous heatwave. With red alerts active across 35 departments, the office of Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu confirmed that state-run gatherings will no longer provide alcoholic beverages. This measure aims to reduce pressure on medical services and ensure staff can prioritize those most vulnerable to heat-related illnesses.
Extreme temperatures ranging from 39C to 41C are anticipated from the southwest through Paris and into Burgundy. Officials expect the heat to peak on Monday, potentially reaching record-breaking levels. The ongoing weather crisis has already disrupted daily life, leading to school closures and train cancellations. Météo-France reports that roughly 75% of the population is impacted by the heat, though the duration of the event remains unclear. In Paris, city officials have authorized parks and gardens to remain open overnight to provide relief to residents and visitors alike.
