France, June 21 -- Every year on 21 June, musicians fill French bars, street corners and rooftops late into the night.

But this year the Fete de la Musique coincides with a ferocious heatwave, with a record 35 departments - roughly a third of the country - placed under the highest heat alert.

Weather service Meteo-France warned that temperatures could reach as high as 41C in some places.

To minimise health risks and prevent potential disturbances to public order, the government announced a ban on public alcohol consumption in departments under red alert.

Another 45 departments are on the second-highest orange alert, and some have also opted to impose a ban on street drinking.

While urging people to limit their alcohol intake, the gov...