Extreme heat across France has disrupted this week’s Paris Diamond League after police called for the track to be closed, due to a growing number of emergencies and worsening weather conditions.Paris police announced on Friday that they had asked organizers to cancel Sunday’s Diamond League rally, as well as other major public events including a music festival and the annual Pride parade. Officials say the extreme heat, which has gripped the French capital since June 21, has forced emergency responders to prioritize protecting the most vulnerable.The region warned that if the planners do not comply voluntarily, they will impose a ban.The move puts one of the mainstays on the Diamond League calendar in jeopardy, with Olympic and world champions including Noah Lyles, Femke Bol and Armand “Mondo” Duplantis are expected to compete.
Organizers hope to hold a modified event even if it is difficult
The French Athletics Federation, which organizes the event, told The Associated Press that it had not yet received a ban.A day earlier, the organizers insisted that the race should continue on a modified route to reduce the risk of accidents.“The safety of athletes, coaches, volunteers, officials and spectators remains a top priority,” the organizers said. “Only top athletes will be allowed to compete at the Paris Summit. This change ensures that the event can go ahead and maintain full safety.”The unprecedented season has already disrupted world history. According to Meteo France, the average temperature in 30 weather stations reached 30 degrees Celsius (86°F) for the second day in a row on Thursday, compared to the highest temperature recorded in the whole country.More than three-quarters of France has now been placed under a weather warning for the first time in the country’s history.
