France Bans Public Alcohol Sales in 35 Regions Under Red Heat Alert

The French government announced a ban on public alcohol consumption in the 35 regions under its highest red heatwave alert, effective at noon Sunday. The measure applies during the Fête de la Musique festival, which has been held on the summer solstice since 1982.

Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu stated that instructions have been given not to offer alcohol at all events organised by the state and its agencies.

Prefects will issue decrees banning alcohol consumption in public spaces in the departments under red alert. Météo-France warned that temperatures could reach as high as 41 degrees Celsius in some areas, with peaks expected Monday. The red alert covers much of western and central France, including Paris, while many other regions remain under an orange alert.

Music day event organizers were ordered to limit alcohol use to preserve emergency services and allow medics to concentrate on taking care of the most vulnerable. The heatwave has already forced dozens of trains to be cancelled, shut down outdoor sporting events and closed 845 schools ahead of Monday. In Paris, police increased their patrols along the Seine River to prevent drownings.

French officials said around 4,800 police officers and 2,500 firefighters were deployed to maintain public safety during the celebrations. City officials are keeping parks and gardens open throughout the night in Paris. The Eiffel Tower and other venues set up misting stations to cool crowds.

Météo-France said it is uncertain how long the heatwave will last. President Emmanuel Macron posted on X: “In the face of the heatwave, let us watch over one another.