France is bracing for its annual Fête de la Musique music festival on Sunday amid a severe heatwave, with temperatures expected to reach 41°C in some areas. The national weather service has issued red alerts for 35 departments, including Paris.

Following a crisis meeting chaired by Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu, the government announced a ban on alcohol consumption during the festivities in departments under red heatwave alert, effective from noon Sunday.

Météo France warned that the heatwave could rival those of July 2019 and August 2003, when nearly 14,800 people, mostly elderly, died from heat-related causes. Monday's temperatures are forecast to range between 37°C and 42°C.

The Fête de la Musique, held on the summer solstice, is one of France's biggest annual events. Last year, nearly 2 million people attended in Paris alone, featuring DJs, rock bands, choirs, jazz, and classical musicians.

Safety concerns have been heightened after reports of syringe pricks during last year's event. Authorities have since adopted a zero-tolerance approach and set up designated safe zones for women and people with disabilities.

Source: www.dw.com