French and Riviera News Thursday 1st May 2025

News

May 1st - Several nationwide updates take effect in France from today May 1st. First, tax return deadlines are approaching online filing is open, with May 22nd the cutoff for departments 1–19, May 28th for 20–54, and June 5th for 55–97. Paper filers and residents abroad must submit by May 20th. Good news on gas: prices will drop by 6.4% this month, easing household heating and cooking costs. However, subscription fees remain unchanged. The energy check, usually sent in spring to support low-income households, will be delayed until November due to late budget approval. Lastly, social benefits including the RSA and AAH will rise by 1.7% from May 5th to match inflation.

Man shot and injured - A man has been shot and injured in the Frayère district of Cannes la Bocca on Wednesday evening, shortly before 8 p.m. Emergency services responded after reports of gunfire in the area, which is known for ongoing drug trafficking activity. The victim was treated for gunshot wounds, and police have since arrested two individuals in connection with the incident. An investigation is now underway.

Tragic accident on work site - A devastating accident occurred in Saint-Martin-du-Var on Wednesday morning when a 16-year-old apprentice lost his life in a construction site incident on Avenue des Moulins. The accident took place around 11:30 a.m., and despite the quick response from emergency services, the teenager could not be saved. The exact circumstances are still unclear, and the public prosecutor has opened an investigation. A psychological support unit has been set up for those affected, as the local community mourns the loss.

Saharan Heat Wave - A hot air surge from the Sahara will bring early and intense heat to southern France, with temperatures nearing 30°C on the 30th of April. The warmer weather, increasingly common due to climate change, can raise temperatures 10–12°C above seasonal norms and affect health and the environment. Though the warmth is temporary, with a rapid temperature drop expected in 72 hours, experts warn these recurring heat spikes signal the growing impact of global warming.

Monaco E-Prix Fan Village - If you're attending the Monaco E-Prix this weekend, the free “fan village” on Quai Antoine-1er offers gaming simulators, photo ops, kids’ activities, live shows, and official merchandise. Expect traffic and parking restrictions around the circuit on the 3rd and 4th of May, with shuttle service from the Salines parking area and public transport diversions. The event aims to boost excitement around the E-Prix and promote Formula-E in Monaco with engaging experiences for all ages.

First Voter Cards - 300–400 young adults have received their first voter cards during a civic ceremony marking their 18th birthday in Antibes. While some saw it as an important step into adulthood, others were indifferent or openly rejected the system, criticizing democracy’s effectiveness. One attendee even called for a return to monarchy, highlighting generational divides in how French youth perceive their civic role. 

Business

The United States and Ukraine have signed a new agreement to jointly exploit Ukraine's energy and mineral resources, aiming to boost the war-torn country's economic recovery. The deal includes the creation of a reconstruction investment fund, seen by Kyiv as key to unlocking US military aid. Ukraine holds major reserves of critical minerals like lithium, titanium, and graphite—vital for green energy, defense, and industry. US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent called the agreement a commitment to “lasting peace and prosperity.”

A US district judge has ruled that Apple willfully violated a court order in its legal battle with Epic Games, accusing a senior Apple executive of lying under oath. The injunction was meant to stop anti-competitive practices by allowing external payment options in the App Store. Judge Yvonne Gonzalez Rogers has referred the case to federal prosecutors to consider criminal contempt charges. Apple says it will comply with the order but plans to appeal.

Sport

Football - Barcelona and Inter Milan delivered a Champions League semi-final to remember, drawing 3-3 in a thrilling first leg. The match featured sensational goals, drama, and standout performances, leaving pundits calling it “special” and “one heck of a game.”

Tennis - World number one Jannik Sinner has revealed he nearly walked away from tennis during his doping case, saying he felt isolated during the Australian Open. The 23-year-old Italian tested positive for banned substance in March 2024 and served a three-month ban. Speaking to Italian broadcaster RAI, Sinner said, "Some players looked at me differently — I didn’t like it at all."

Weather

Sunny with light winds. Highs of 22 degrees in Monaco, Nice. 21 degrees in Saint-Tropez. This evening going down to 13 degrees along the coast with clear skies.

The outlook for tomorrow and the weekend, fine and sunny with light winds and highs of 25 degrees.

Sunrise 06.22am

Sunset 08.33pm

Weather elsewhere

London 29° sunny.

Paris 30° sunny.

Dublin 21° sunny.

Beach weather

Nice – Fine and sunny. Air temperature 22°. Sea temperature 18°. UV level 6.

Hyeres – Fine and sunny. Air temperature 19°. Sea temperature 17°. UV level 6.

 

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