PARIS, France, June 26 – Brussels Morning Newspaper — European heatwave conditions have prompted Paris police to ask organisers to cancel this weekend’s Pride march, warning the event could be banned if it proceeds as planned. Authorities say exceptionally high temperatures have placed severe pressure on hospitals and emergency services, raising concerns about public safety during one of the city’s largest annual gatherings. The Pride march typically attracts tens of thousands of participants, but officials believe the combination of extreme heat and large crowds could overwhelm medical resources already responding to a surge in heat-related emergencies.
Police said similar requests have also been made to organisers of other major outdoor events scheduled in Paris, including festivals and sporting competitions, as France continues to battle one of the most intense early summer heatwaves in recent years. Officials are urging residents and visitors to stay hydrated, avoid prolonged exposure to the sun, and follow official health guidance while emergency teams remain on high alert.
“The exceptional heatwave has stretched emergency services and hospitals,”
Paris police said while urging organisers to cancel the event or face a possible ban.
The European heatwave has affected several countries across the continent, with governments introducing emergency measures, health alerts and restrictions on public activities as temperatures continue to climb. Authorities in Paris are expected to make a final decision on the Pride march based on updated weather forecasts and emergency service capacity.
