The government has banned alcohol at some music festivals amid extreme heat and a red heatwave alert in France. The temperature could reach 41 degrees Celsius, which is likely to increase pressure on health services.
Paris: Amidst the ongoing scorching heat in many countries of Europe, France has taken important steps keeping in mind public health and safety. After the red heatwave alert was issued in many parts of the country, the government has imposed a temporary ban on the consumption of alcohol in some programs of famous music festivals organized at the national level.
This decision has been taken at a time when the temperature in large parts of France is expected to reach around 40 degrees Celsius. Weather experts say that the heat level in the coming days may challenge even the records of recent years.
Lakhs of people flock to the Fête de la music festival
The Fête de la Musique, held every year in France, is counted among the largest public music events in the world. During this event, thousands of concerts are organized in streets, parks, squares and public places across the country.
Lakhs of people participate in this more than four decade old tradition every year. Last year, around 20 lakh people took part in various programs in the capital Paris alone. However, this time due to the scorching heat, special health guidelines have been imposed on organizing the festival.
Liquor banned in red alert areas
The French administration has clarified that alcohol consumption in public places will be limited in areas where the red heatwave warning is in force. The government believes that alcohol consumption during extreme heat can increase the risk of dehydration, dizziness, fainting and other health problems.
According to the instructions issued by the Prime Minister’s Office, liquor will not be provided in the programs organized by the government and its associated institutions. Officials say the decision is aimed at preventing additional pressure on health services and keeping medical resources available to those most in need.
The temperature may go above 40 degrees Celsius
According to the Meteorological Department, the temperature in many areas from south-western France to the Paris region and Burgundy can reach 39 to 40 degrees Celsius. At some places this figure can even go up to 41 degrees Celsius. Experts say that this heat wave is 10 to 15 degrees Celsius higher than the normal seasonal temperature. This is why it is being included among the most severe heat events of recent years. According to the forecast, temperatures may reach their peak on Monday and are likely to reach historical records in some areas.
Pressure on health services may increase
It is normal for hospitals and emergency services to be under increased pressure during extreme heat. An increase in emergencies related to heat stroke, dehydration, respiratory problems and heart diseases is seen. For this reason, the government is advising people to drink enough water, avoid sunlight and stay away from substances that dehydrate the body like alcohol. Especially the elderly, children, pregnant women and those who are already ill have been instructed to take extra precautions.
Special arrangements in the capital Paris
The Paris administration has taken many special steps to provide relief from the scorching heat. It has been decided to keep the city’s parks and public gardens open overnight so that local residents and tourists can spend time in a relatively cooler environment.
Apart from this, drinking water facilities have been increased in various parts of the city and health related advisories are being issued continuously to the citizens. The local administration believes that by keeping public places open till late night, people can get some relief from the rising temperatures in their homes.
Transport and education sectors also affected
The impact of this heat wave is not limited to the health sector only. Many transport services have been affected due to extreme temperatures. Some rail services have had to be cancelled, while schools and educational activities have been temporarily halted in many areas.
Experts say that prolonged heat can also affect the infrastructure. Rising temperatures put additional pressure on railway tracks, roads and electricity networks.
Debate flares up again on climate change
The continuously increasing heat events in Europe have once again intensified the debate about climate change. Scientists believe that due to increase in global temperature, heatwave events are becoming more frequent and more intense.
In the last few years, many countries in Europe have faced problems like record-breaking heat, forest fires and drought. Experts are warning that if greenhouse gas emissions are not controlled, such situations may become more serious in the future.
advisory issued to citizens
French health agencies have advised people to avoid going out during the hottest times of the day, wear light clothing, drink enough water and stay in cool places if needed.
Apart from this, people have been asked to take special care of the elderly and lonely people living around them, because extreme heat affects the weaker sections the most.
Comments are closed.