Severe Heat Wave Grips Europe, France Restricts Alcohol Consumption, Spain Shuts Football Fan Zone

Paris: A severe heatwave sweeping across much of Europe has significantly disrupted daily life. With temperatures soaring to record levels, France has imposed partial restrictions on alcohol consumption, Germany has issued warnings nationwide, and Spain has shut down a football fan zone.

A "red heatwave" alert has been declared in 35 of France's 96 departments for Sunday. Temperatures are expected to rise to between 39 and 40 degrees Celsius in areas stretching from the southwest to Burgundy via Paris, with some places likely to see highs of up to 41 degrees. Alcohol consumption has been strictly banned at Paris's Fete de la Musique festival and other public events, while authorities have ordered the city's parks to remain open round the clock.

In Germany, temperatures in most areas have edged close to 38 degrees Celsius. The DWD weather service warned that the intense heat combined with humid conditions could also trigger severe thunderstorms. In Italy, temperatures have climbed to between 36 and 37 degrees.

In Spain, the football federation has shut down the fan zone set up at Plaza de Colon in Madrid, meaning fans will now have to find alternative ways to watch Spain's World Cup match against Saudi Arabia. Notably, the stadium in Atlanta where the match is being held is air-conditioned.

Bank of France Governor Emmanuel Moulin said the rising heat could hurt productivity and adversely affect economic activity, warning that it could potentially trigger both a health emergency and an economic slowdown.