• France places 35 departments under red heatwave alert due to soaring temperatures.
• Alcohol consumption is banned at Fête de la Musique and other public events to ensure public safety.
• Temperatures are expected to reach up to 41°C, raising concerns over health and emergency services.

France has issued a red heatwave alert affecting more than a third of the country, prompting authorities to enforce a ban on alcohol consumption during the annual Fête de la Musique celebrations. This alert encompasses 35 of 96 departments as temperatures are predicted to soar between 39°C and 41°C on Sunday, June 21, according to Le Monde and Channel News Asia.

The government has taken this precautionary measure in public spaces to mitigate risks associated with the extreme heat, explicitly stating, "For all events organised by the state and its agencies, instructions have been given not to offer alcohol," as noted by BBC. This alcohol ban aims to "preserve emergency and healthcare services," ensuring that medical personnel can focus on aiding the most vulnerable in the sweltering conditions, according to India Times.

The intense heat has caused widespread disruptions across France, leading to the cancellation of train services and the suspension of classes. Parks in Paris will remain open overnight to aid those looking for respite from the oppressive heat, as authorities brace for unprecedented temperatures that could last beyond the immediate forecast, according to Le Monde and BBC.

Beyond France, the heatwave extends throughout Europe, with neighboring countries like Germany and Spain also experiencing alarming temperatures, thereby prompting similar safety measures. The Bank of France has expressed concerns over the economic impacts of these heatwaves, which are becoming more frequent due to the long-term effects of climate change, as reported by India Times and Channel News Asia.