02.07.2026 00:01
The extreme heat affecting Europe has also been effective in Istanbul. Citizens struggling with the heat tried to cool off by swimming at spots like Bebek Beach, Taksim Gezi Park, and Kumkapı Beach, or by staying in the shade of trees. While temperatures are noted to be above normal, citizens were warned to drink plenty of water and stay in the shade.
The hot weather affecting Istanbul overwhelmed the citizens. While some of those overwhelmed by the heat cooled off by swimming, others sought shade under trees.
ISTANBULITES FLOCK TO THE COASTS
The extreme heat affecting Europe has also taken hold of Turkey. As temperatures rise across the country, the megacity Istanbul has been scorched. While the temperature felt in the city during the day was oppressive, Istanbulites unable to stay at home due to the hot weather and high humidity took refuge along the coastline, in parks, and under trees. Among those overwhelmed by the heat, some immersed themselves in the cool waters of the Bosphorus at Bebek Beach, while others sought shelter under the trees in Taksim Gezi Park. Fatih Kumkapi Beach also became one of the preferred spots for those looking to cool off.
As both the coastlines and central parks of the city saw heavy crowds, moments of citizens enjoying the sea and cooling off in shaded areas were captured on camera.
"TEMPERATURES ARE ABOVE NORMAL"
Cumhur Horus stated that the temperature is above normal, saying, "Temperatures are above normal. It has actually become quite oppressive. Because of that, we fled to the seaside; we are coming from Kagithane with our family. My daughter loves swimming. Since the weather is so hot, we came to jump in and cool off. We enjoy watching them and having fun."
Dogu Baris Unal also expressed that they came to the sea due to the hot weather, saying, "We are coming from Besiktas, on behalf of Besiktas Bazaar. We come to the sea with our friends to cool off in this scorching summer heat. Gathering with our friends is one of our favorite activities. We enjoy swimming in our free time. The weather is very hot. Even as I'm giving this interview, my feet are burning. It's that hot; I can barely stand here."
Angelina Branda, who said she came to Istanbul for vacation, stated, "The weather is a bit oppressive. Sometimes we need shade to cool off. I'm fine right now because the weather where I come from, Argentina, is also very hot, so we are quite used to these temperatures. But still, today it seems a bit too much. Yesterday wasn't as hot as today. In the afternoon, the weather really becomes oppressive. That's why we need to drink plenty of water. I will try to stay in the shade as much as possible."