Several French towns have cancelled fireworks planned for Bastille Day celebrations on July 14th as soaring temperatures and drought conditions increase the risk of wildfires across much of the country.
With France in the middle of another heatwave and French forecaster Météo-France having placed 57 départements on high wildfire alert, many local authorities have decided to scrap the annual Bastille Day fireworks shows on July 13th or 14th.
In Aubusson, in the Creuse département, the town announced on Monday that it would cancel its fireworks display on the evening of July 13th after consulting the local fire and rescue service. Officials said the decision was taken as "a measure of responsibility and safety" because of the heightened fire risk.
In the Drôme département, Bourg-lès-Valence has also cancelled its fireworks display. The move follows a prefectural order banning the use of fireworks by both local authorities and private individuals until September 30th due to the risk of wildfires. Nearby Chabeuil and Romans-sur Isère have both likewise cancelled their Bastille Day display.
Further north, the municipality of Auvers-le-Hamon in the Sarthe département has called off its fireworks planned for July 11th. The local council said the event would instead be rescheduled for December.
