Europe, North Africa, North America, the Middle East, and Asia are experiencing extreme heat with temperatures climbing to 40 degrees Celsius and beyond.
Since Friday, June 25, there have been more than 600 deaths due to extreme heat in Canada’s British Columbia. The small town of Lytton, Vancouver set a national record when the temperature reached 49.6C (116F).
The United States also saw a record break in Portland, Oregon when the all-time high of 41.6C (107F) set in 1965 shattered when the temperature hit 46.6C (116F). The heat is high enough that it has caused power lines to melt and highways to buckle in the US.
For the first time ever, England has a red heat alert due to the possibility of temperatures soaring to 40C (104F). To escape the heat, residents from London to Manchester are jumping into rivers, lakes, and reservoirs to cool off, and at least four drownings have been reported.
One Mosque is offering refuge for those seeking a place to cool off. Makki Masjid in the town of Longsight, Manchester has opened its doors from 1 pm-10 pm Monday 18 and Tuesday 19 offering AC and free water to people from all faiths and backgrounds.
“Being a hub of the community here in Longsight, we see it as our responsibility to look after our neighbours and the local community since Islam encourages and places great importance and emphasis on looking after neighbors, especially at times of difficulty.” wrote Makki Masjid.
During this trying time, we can be a source of good and help our neighbors as mentioned in hadith:
The Messenger of Allah, (Peace and blessings be upon him), said: “Jibril kept recommending me to treat my neighbour well until I thought that he would tell me to make him one of my heirs” (Bukhari: 6014).
Abu Dharr, May Allah be pleased with him, reported: The Messenger of Allah, (Peace and blessings be upon him), commanded me thus, “O Abu Dharr! Whenever you prepare a broth, put plenty of water in it, and give some of it to your neighbours”
If June temperatures broke records, it may indicate how hot it could get in July and August. According to a report published by NASA’s Goddard Institute for Space Studies (GISS) Earth’s global average surface temperature in 2022 tied as the warmest year on record with 2016.
Extreme temperatures could lead to fires, infrastructure issues, and health issues for anyone exposed to the heat. Rain would be a welcome respite for many. While many Muslims mention the blessings that come when making dua while it is raining, there is also a dua to make for the rain to come:
Oh Allah, shower upon us abundant rain, beneficial not harmful, swiftly and not delayed. (Abu Dawood)
May Makki Masjid be an example for us all. Check on your friends, family, and neighbors. Stay cool!