France has placed more than a third of the country under a red heat alert as a brutal heatwave pushes temperatures above 40C, with some areas expected to reach 42C from Monday. A record 35 of the mainland's 96 departments are under a danger-to-life red alert, while another 45 are under orange warnings. In total, Level 1 or 2 heat alerts have been issued for approximately 53 million people, representing 76% of the population.
To minimize health risks, the government has restricted and banned public alcohol consumption in departments under the red alert. Some outdoor sports events have also been cancelled. Emergency services and military forces have been placed on wildfire alert as the heatwave affects parts of Europe, with temperatures in some areas of France and Spain expected to reach 104 degrees Fahrenheit.
The heatwave coincides with the summer solstice, bringing high UV levels across the continent, and the annual Fête de la Musique music festival. Despite the extreme heat and restrictions, locals and tourists still turned out for the nationwide event. Meanwhile, beyond the Alps, temperatures as high as 36-37C are transforming daily life and tourism in some Italian towns.