Paris : Authorities in Paris have imposed a temporary ban on the consumption and takeaway sale of alcohol in public places as the French capital grapples with an intense heatwave that has placed significant strain on emergency and healthcare services.
The restrictions, announced by the Paris Police Prefecture, are aimed at reducing heat-related health risks and easing pressure on hospitals, which have reported a sharp increase in patients suffering from heat exhaustion, dehydration, and other temperature-related illnesses.
Under the emergency measures, drinking alcohol in streets, parks, public squares, and other open public spaces will be prohibited during specified hours over the weekend. The takeaway sale of alcoholic beverages will also be suspended during evening and overnight hours. However, licensed restaurants, cafés, bars, and their authorised outdoor seating areas will remain exempt from the restrictions.
Officials said alcohol consumption during periods of extreme heat can accelerate dehydration and increase the likelihood of medical emergencies. The temporary ban is intended to protect public health as temperatures continue to soar across the region.
The Paris Fire Brigade has also reported a substantial rise in emergency interventions linked to the heatwave, highlighting the growing pressure on first responders.
France is among several European countries currently experiencing exceptionally high temperatures, with some regions recording temperatures exceeding 40 degrees Celsius. Meteorologists have warned that prolonged heatwaves are becoming increasingly frequent and severe, a trend widely associated with climate change.
The authorities have urged residents and visitors to stay hydrated, avoid unnecessary outdoor activity during peak afternoon hours, and follow official health advisories until weather conditions improve.