French authorities have introduced temporary restrictions on public drinking and alcohol sales in Paris as the city faces an intense heatwave. The measures are designed to reduce pressure on hospitals and protect public health during the period of extreme temperatures.
Under the new rules, drinking alcohol in public places is prohibited from Friday afternoon until 7:00 a.m. on Saturday. The same restrictions will also apply from Saturday to Sunday during the same hours.
In addition, the sale of takeaway alcohol will be banned from 6:00 p.m. until 7:00 a.m. on both evenings. However, licensed bars, cafés, and restaurants will remain exempt and can continue serving customers as usual.
French officials say the temporary ban is part of a broader emergency response to the ongoing heatwave, which has affected several European countries, including France, Spain, and the United Kingdom. Meteorologists have warned that the extreme heat is now moving east, with Germany and the Czech Republic also expected to experience dangerously high temperatures.
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Weather forecasts indicate that parts of Germany could see temperatures reach 40°C, while severe weather alerts have been issued across much of the Czech Republic.
French Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu said health authorities are raising the national health alert to the highest level. The government is increasing hospital staffing and taking additional steps to protect elderly people, children, and other vulnerable groups who are most at risk during extreme heat.
Officials are also urging residents and tourists to stay hydrated, avoid outdoor activities during the hottest hours of the day, and follow public health advice. The temporary alcohol restrictions are intended to reduce heat-related medical emergencies and help emergency services manage the increased demand during the severe weather.
Authorities will continue monitoring the situation and may extend or adjust the measures depending on weather conditions in the coming days.
