Extreme heat strikes France; Restrictions introduced in 49 departments

France has declared the highest level of weather alert across much of the country, France 24 reports. The alert has been issued in 49 of the country’s 96 departments.

As a result, classes at schools and colleges have been canceled. Restrictions have also been imposed during the national music festival Fête de la Musique, including a ban on the sale and consumption of alcohol during events.

Extreme heat has been recorded in Paris and around one-third of the country’s regions. In some areas, temperatures could reach as high as 42 degrees Celsius.