France Bans Public Drinking As Record Heatwave Sparks Wildfires And Drowning Crisis

Paris bans public drinking amid record heatwave as UK wildfires spread and France reports 55 drowning deaths

France’s capital has banned public drinking in a bid to curb heat-related risks as Europe endures a deadly June heatwave, with temperatures exceeding 36°C in parts of the UK and France. Officials report at least 55 drowning deaths in France this month alone, while wildfires in southern England have forced evacuations as meteorologists warn of prolonged extreme heat.

The French government announced the ban on June 25, citing rising temperatures and public health concerns. "This measure is temporary but necessary to protect citizens," a Paris city hall spokesperson told Reuters. Meanwhile, the UK’s Met Office confirmed that June has already broken national temperature records, with 36.7°C recorded in London on June 24.

Wildfires in Kent and Sussex have scorched hundreds of hectares, prompting emergency services to issue red warnings for southeastern England. The UK’s Environment Agency reported that firefighters are battling multiple blazes, with at least three major fires still active as of June 26. "The conditions are extremely dangerous," said a spokesperson for the agency. "We’re urging residents to stay alert and follow evacuation orders if issued."

France’s heatwave has also led to a surge in drowning incidents, with 55 deaths reported in June alone, according to the French interior ministry. Authorities blame the extreme heat for reckless behavior near water bodies, including rivers and lakes. "Many of these tragedies could have been avoided with basic precautions," said a ministry official.

Why is this heatwave so severe?
Europe’s prolonged heatwave is being attributed to a high-pressure system trapping hot air over the continent, combined with climate change effects that intensify heatwaves. The World Meteorological Organization (WMO) warned in a June 24 statement that such extreme temperatures are now "five times more likely" due to global warming.

What happens next?
French authorities have extended heatwave alerts through July, with Paris and other regions maintaining restrictions on outdoor activities. In the UK, the Met Office predicts temperatures will remain above 30°C in many areas through the weekend, though a slight cooldown is expected by early next week.

How are authorities responding?
France has opened cooling centers across Paris and is distributing free water to vulnerable populations. The UK’s National Health Service (NHS) has issued advisories for heat exhaustion, urging people to stay hydrated and avoid prolonged sun exposure. Meanwhile, wildfire response teams are deploying additional resources to affected regions, with the UK government approving emergency funding for firefighting efforts.

Key figures and developments

• France: 55 drowning deaths in June; Paris bans public drinking; cooling centers open.
• UK: 36.7°C recorded in London; wildfires in Kent and Sussex; red warnings issued.
• Europe: WMO links heatwave to climate change; prolonged extreme heat forecast.

Support and safety resources

• France: Cooling centers listed on Paris city hall’s official website.
• UK: NHS heatwave advice available at NHS.uk/heatwave.
• Wildfire updates: UK Environment Agency at gov.uk/wildfires.

Sources:

• Reuters (Paris drinking ban)
• UK Met Office (temperature records)
• French Interior Ministry (drowning deaths)
• UK Environment Agency (wildfire updates)
• World Meteorological Organization (climate analysis)
• NHS (heatwave advisories)