PARIS — France has implemented emergency measures, including wildfire alerts, public alcohol restrictions, and event cancellations, in response to a nationwide heatwave. Approximately one-third of the country is under a red alert from the national weather service, which described the hot spell as "widespread, long-lasting and intense."

Emergency services and military forces were placed on wildfire alert, and the government announced reinforced wildfire readiness. Authorities banned public alcohol consumption in departments under red heat alerts. The government stated these limits are intended to "preserve emergency services and allow medics to concentrate on taking care of the most vulnerable." Instructions were issued not to offer alcohol for all events organized by the state and its agencies.

Some outdoor sports events have been canceled. Organizers of Music Day events, which take place on the summer solstice, were ordered to limit alcohol use. The heatwave led to the cancellation of dozens of trains and the suspension of classes. The government stated schools would close only as a last resort. End-of-year exams scheduled for the afternoons may be delayed until the following morning or rearranged.

Temperatures are expected to reach 40 degrees Celsius (104 degrees Fahrenheit) in parts of France, with some areas possibly reaching 41 degrees Celsius. Readings from 39 to 40 degrees Celsius are anticipated from the southwest through the Paris region and into Burgundy. The forecast for Monday indicates higher temperatures than Sunday. Météo-France stated uncertainty regarding how long the heatwave would persist.

Prime Minister Sebastien Lecornu convened a government heat crisis meeting on Saturday and planned another for Sunday. He ordered ministers to develop plans for France to adapt to future heatwaves, noting measures could include "via air conditioning, if necessary." The government also ordered tightened surveillance of water supplies to France's nuclear reactors. In Paris, the Eiffel Tower and other venues established misting stations to cool crowds, and authorities are keeping parks and gardens open through the night. The World Health Organization's Europe office stated that more than 200,000 people across Europe died from heat-related causes over the past four years, with most fatalities considered preventable. About 15,000 older people died in France during the 2003 heatwave.

No independent assessment was available for this report.