The French government has imposed a ban on the sale and consumption of alcohol at street festivals and public events across half of the country, as a severe heatwave places 25 departments under a red alert. The measure, announced by the Ministry of Health, is aimed at reducing heat-related hospitalisations and fatalities, particularly among vulnerable populations. The red alert, the highest level in France's heatwave warning system, covers a broad swath of territory from the Paris basin to the Mediterranean coast, where temperatures are expected to exceed 42 degrees Celsius in some areas.
The ban applies to all public festivities, including outdoor concerts, market fairs, and village celebrations, for the duration of the red alert. Authorities have cited the dehydrating effects of alcohol as a significant risk factor during extreme heat. The decision follows a similar policy enacted during the 2019 heatwave, which officials credit with preventing a higher death toll. Local prefects have been granted the authority to extend the ban to other public spaces if necessary.
France's meteorological office, Météo-France, has warned that this heatwave is exceptional in both its intensity and duration. The red alert, typically reserved for events that pose an immediate danger to life, has been activated for the first time this summer. The health ministry has activated its emergency heat plan, opening cooling centres and extending the hours of public swimming pools. Hospitals have been placed on standby, and nursing homes have been instructed to ensure residents remain hydrated.
The ban on alcohol has drawn criticism from some festival organisers and vintners, who argue that it unfairly targets cultural traditions. However, the government has maintained that public health considerations must take precedence. Prime Minister Élisabeth Borne urged citizens to exercise caution, stating that "no event is worth the risk of a life." The opposition has largely supported the measure, though some have questioned the effectiveness of a blanket ban given that private consumption remains unregulated.
This heatwave is part of a broader pattern of extreme weather events across Europe this summer. Wildfires have already broken out in several southern departments, and water restrictions have been imposed in many regions. The current crisis underscores the challenges faced by governments in balancing public safety with economic and social activities as climate change intensifies. The red alert is expected to remain in force until at least the weekend, with temperatures forecast to peak on Wednesday.