03.07.2026 21:41
Due to the ongoing heatwave in Diyarbakır, thermometers show 40 degrees Celsius, and citizens struggling with the heat have found refuge in air-conditioned mosques. Mosques in the city center have been flooded by people seeking both to pray and cool down. While the elderly, in particular, try to cool off by lying down and sleeping on the mosque carpets throughout the day, citizens noted that mosques are both cooler and more cost-effective than coffeehouses.
The heat wave affecting the country continues to negatively impact life in Diyarbakır.
THOSE SUFFERING FROM THE HEAT SLEPT IN MOSQUES
In the city, where thermometers showed 40 degrees Celsius at noon, traffic on streets and avenues decreased, while those suffering from the heat sought cooler environments. Air-conditioned mosques in the city center became a popular spot for both worship and cooling off.
Some of those who performed their prayers chose to read the Quran and worship inside the mosque, while others slept on the carpets or rested lying down. Those who moved to shaded areas in the mosque courtyards spent time chatting.
"DUE TO THE HEAT, WE ALSO COME TO THE MOSQUE TO COOL OFF"
Sedat Katkan (38), who stated he works in a bakery, said they spend their breaks in the mosque during hot weather, adding, “I have been working in a bakery since 2005. We work from 5:00 AM to 8:00 PM. It doesn’t matter if it’s hot or cold; we take a half-hour break. Because of the heat, we come to the mosque to cool off. Since it’s hotter outside, we entered the mosque. The mosque is cool and nice. Diyarbakır’s summer is hot and its winter is cold. Instead of going to cafes, citizens come to the mosque. It’s free, cool, and pleasant,” he said.
"DUE TO THE HEAT, MANY OF OUR ELDERS COME HERE"
Beytullah Çelebi (18), who came to the mosque to pray, said, “I came to the mosque for prayer. Due to the heat, many of our elders come here and lie down. I was surprised by this situation. It is cool here, all the air conditioners are working,” he stated.