France has banned drinking alcohol in public across all departments under a red heatwave alert, disrupting the annual Fête de la Musique celebration as temperatures soar to between 39C and 41C (102F–106F). National forecasters at Météo‑France issued the highest “red” alert, covering a record 35 of France’s 96 departments, including the entire Paris region, affecting around 26 million people. According to AFP estimates, approximately 53 million people in France will be impacted by the heat on June 21.
Emergency Measures for Fête de la Musique
The clampdown coincides with Fête de la Musique, a 40-year-old midsummer tradition where millions gather in streets, parks, and public squares for free live music. Paris mayor Emmanuel Grégoire explained the ban is intended to “be able to organise and manage [Fête de la Musique] rather than be overwhelmed.” To enforce the measures, 4,800 police officers and gendarmes, along with 2,500 firefighters, will be deployed across Paris and the surrounding area, according to Paris police headquarters. Additionally, processions are banned on lower riverbanks “to avoid any risk of falling into the Seine.”
Alcohol Ban and Health Warnings
Following an emergency crisis meeting called by Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu, regional prefects have been ordered to issue decrees banning alcohol consumption in outdoor public areas across all red-alert departments. Health Minister Stéphanie Rist told French daily Le Parisien, “Alcohol and high temperatures really do not mix well.” The restrictions also apply to official events, with a blanket order forbidding the sale or offering of alcohol at any event organised by the state or its agencies. Bars and restaurants face tighter rules on selling takeaway alcoholic drinks to crowds outside.
Impact on Health Services
Ministers say the measures aim to reduce the risk of heat stroke and dehydration, as well as protect already-stretched hospitals and emergency services during the intense hot spell. The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has also issued updated heat-health alerts across parts of England, with an amber alert in place for London, the South East, the South West, and the East of England until 8pm on June 23.
