Heat up to 36 Degrees, Fire Bans & World Cup All-Night Opening
Switzerland is bracing for a heatwave with temperatures reaching up to 36 degrees, which has already led to the first fire bans. Simultaneously, cities like Basel are permitting special opening hours for the national team's late-night World Cup quarter-final, while a new calculator enables people to compare their personal wealth.
Due to the persistent drought and heat, the first cantons have issued fire bans. This also impacts plans for the National Day on August 1st: whether setting off fireworks remains permitted depends on the local risk of forest fires. While thunderstorms may briefly interrupt the heatwave, the general dryness in the forests remains.
For the World Cup quarter-final against Argentina, adjusted rules for football fans apply in several cities. Since the match does not start until 3 a.m., Basel has granted a so-called "Freinacht" (suspension of the closing hour) so that bars and restaurants can show the game live. Other cities are also showing flexibility regarding opening hours for public viewings, following Switzerland's previous victory against Colombia.
In financial terms, a new online tool allows for a comparison of one's own wealth. Based on your income and assets, the calculator determines exactly where you stand in a nationwide comparison across Switzerland.
In the app, you will find further information on the federal government's AI regulation plans as well as details regarding a racist incident involving an entrepreneurial family of Indian origin in Western Switzerland.