Half of France under red heat alert as alcohol banned at street music festival

France issued a red heat alert for 47 departments on July 24, 2024, as temperatures were forecast to reach 40 degrees Celsius (104 degrees Fahrenheit) and potentially match historic highs. This extreme heatwave prompted authorities to ban alcohol sales and consumption at the Fête de la Musique street festival in Paris, a popular event usually held on the summer solstice but postponed due to the weather. The ban, which took effect at 4 PM on July 23, aimed to prevent public health risks associated with dehydration and alcohol consumption during the intense heat. Prefectures across the affected regions advised citizens to stay hydrated, avoid strenuous activity, and check on vulnerable individuals. The national meteorological service, Météo-France, indicated that the heatwave, originating from North Africa, was expected to persist through the week, with Monday being the peak day for temperatures.