Paris has imposed a ban on alcohol sales as a severe heatwave sweeping across Europe shifts eastward, prompting a weather alert for the UK. The measure, announced by municipal authorities, prohibits the sale of alcoholic beverages in public spaces and shops from midday to 6pm until further notice. It is intended to reduce the risk of dehydration and heatstroke among citizens and visitors during the extreme heat, which has seen temperatures exceed 40 degrees Celsius in parts of France.
The European heatwave, which has already caused hundreds of deaths in Spain and Portugal, is now moving towards Eastern Europe. Forecasters predict that temperatures in Poland, Hungary, and the Czech Republic could reach 38 degrees Celsius in the coming days. The UK Met Office has issued an amber warning for heat, covering much of southern and central England, with temperatures expected to hit 35 degrees Celsius. Health officials have urged vulnerable groups, including the elderly and those with pre-existing conditions, to stay indoors and remain hydrated.
The decision to ban alcohol sales in Paris follows similar restrictions in other European cities. Italian authorities in Turin and Milan have imposed curfews on outdoor dining to reduce heat stress, while German cities have opened cooling centres for the homeless. The European Commission has called on member states to coordinate their response to the heatwave, which scientists attribute to climate change. The Copernicus climate service noted that Europe is experiencing its third major heatwave in two months, a pattern consistent with global warming trends.
The heatwave has also disrupted transport. Eurostar has cancelled several services between London and Paris due to heat-related speed restrictions on French railways. The French rail operator SNCF warned of delays and advised passengers to postpone non-essential travel. Airports in London, including Heathrow and Gatwick, have urged passengers to allow extra time for check-in as cooling systems face increased demand.
In the UK, the National Grid has issued a notice of energy supply tightness, though no blackouts are expected. The government has activated its Cobra emergency committee to monitor the situation. Public health officials have advised the public to avoid alcohol, caffeinated drinks, and heavy meals, and to check on elderly neighbours. The UK Health Security Agency said it is preparing for an increase in heat-related hospital admissions.
The heatwave is expected to persist for the remainder of the week, with a slight cooling trend forecast for the weekend. However, the Met Office said it is too early to confirm a return to seasonal averages. The situation remains fluid, and further restrictions may be imposed if temperatures continue to rise.
