In France, due to the intense heat, alcohol consumption was banned at some events of the national music festival Fête de la Musique. The highest level of danger was declared in 35 departments of the country, and the temperature could rise to 41°C. This is reported by BBC.
The annual festival traditionally brings millions of people to the streets. However, this year, 35 departments in France have issued the most severe heat warnings. As a result, the government has banned the consumption of alcohol in public places during events where the red alert level is in effect.
“Instructions have been given not to serve alcohol for all events organized by the state and its institutions,” Prime Minister Sebastien Lecornu’s office said.
On Sunday, France is forecast to see temperatures of 39°C to 40°C from the southwest through the Paris region to Burgundy. In some areas, temperatures could reach 41°C. The heat is expected to peak on Monday, with authorities warning that temperatures could approach historic highs. The government has called for alcohol restrictions to ease the strain on emergency and medical services and allow medics to focus on helping the most vulnerable.
The heatwave in France has been ongoing for several days, with dozens of trains cancelled and classes suspended across the country. The French weather service Météo-France said it was not yet known how long the heatwave, which is estimated to have affected around three-quarters of the population, would last.
Parks and gardens in Paris are being kept open all night to help residents and tourists cope with the high temperatures.
The Fête de la Musique has been held in France for more than 40 years. The festival is traditionally celebrated on the summer solstice. Last year, the events in Paris were attended by about two million people.
