France Grapples with Scorching Heatwave, Cancels Events and Limits Alcohol

As a severe heatwave grips France, authorities have taken drastic measures to protect the public. With temperatures expected to soar above 40C, more than a third of the country has been placed under a red heat alert. The government has cancelled some outdoor sports events and restricted alcohol consumption at the Fête de la Musique, a popular nationwide celebration. Culture Minister Catherine Pégard urged caution, leaving it to local authorities to decide whether to cancel or modify festivities. Many towns have opted to cancel performances before 7pm or move them indoors, while introducing alcohol restrictions in public spaces. In Paris, where a red warning has been issued, stronger drinks have been banned in certain areas to prevent accidents. The city has also deployed nearly 5,000 police officers and 2,500 emergency workers, and installed over 1,300 free public water fountains. Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu has convened a government meeting to plan for future heatwaves, as scientists warn that such extreme events will become more frequent and intense due to global warming. The heatwave has also affected other European countries, including Italy, Spain, and the UK, where health alerts have been issued and temperature records are likely to be broken. As France struggles to cope with the heat, the government is taking steps to adapt to the new reality of more frequent and severe heatwaves.