health
France cancels events and restricts alcohol consumption amid brutal heatwave
Sports and nationwide music festival affected, with temperatures for some expected to reach 42C from Monday
TL;DR
- France is under a brutal heatwave with over 75% of the population (53 million people) under heat alerts.
- 35 departments are on a red danger-to-life alert, with temperatures expected to exceed 40C and potentially reach 42C.
- Outdoor sports events have been cancelled, and alcohol consumption is restricted in public areas, especially near the Seine and Canal St-Martin in Paris.
- The nationwide Fête de la Musique has seen some performances cancelled or moved indoors, with local authorities deciding on precautions.
- Over 800 schools will not open on Monday due to the extreme heat, and others are rescheduling exams.
- Authorities are implementing measures like public water fountains and encouraging shops to refill personal water bottles.
- Other European countries like Italy and Spain are also experiencing severe heatwaves, with the UK anticipating record-breaking June temperatures.