Saudi Arabia announced on Tuesday that pilgrims embarking on the annual Hajj pilgrimage can expect scorching temperatures, with average highs hitting a blistering 44 degrees Celsius (111 degrees Fahrenheit). This revelation comes in the wake of thousands of cases of heat stress recorded during last year’s pilgrimage.
Ayman Ghulam, the chief of the national meteorology center, highlighted the anticipated climatic conditions during a press conference. He stated, “The expected climate for Hajj this year will witness an increase in average temperatures of one and a half to two degrees above normal in Makkah and Medina.”
The forecast projects a relative humidity of 25 percent, minimal chances of rain, and an average maximum temperature of 44 degrees Celsius. The Hajj, a fundamental pillar of Islam, commences on June 14 and spans four days, encompassing a series of rites conducted in Makkah and its vicinity.
Last year, over 1.8 million Muslims participated in the pilgrimage, with more than 2,000 individuals experiencing heat stress due to temperatures peaking at 48 degrees Celsius (118 degrees Fahrenheit). However, the actual number of heat-related cases is speculated to be much higher, as many sufferers did not seek medical assistance.
Tragically, at least 240 individuals, predominantly from Indonesia, lost their lives during the pilgrimage, though specific causes of death were not officially disclosed by Saudi authorities.
In response to the extreme conditions, Saudi Arabia has implemented measures to alleviate the impact of the heat, including the provision of air-conditioned tents and misting systems. Ghulam emphasized the necessity of adequate water supplies to meet the rising demands and recommended the transportation of pilgrims’ food in refrigerated units to prevent spoilage.
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Hosting the Hajj is not only a spiritual obligation but also a significant economic opportunity for Saudi Arabia. Additionally, it reinforces the legitimacy of the Saudi monarch, who holds the esteemed title of “Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques” in Makkah and Medina. As preparations intensify, authorities remain vigilant in ensuring the safety and well-being of pilgrims amidst challenging environmental conditions.
