Hajj Heat Deaths: At Least 14 Pilgrims Die in Saudi Arabia

Hajj Pilgrims Die Amid Scorching Heat in Saudi Arabia

Tragedy has struck the Hajj pilgrimage in Saudi Arabia, with at least 14 Jordanian pilgrims losing their lives due to the extreme heat.

Hajj Pilgrims Die: Heatstroke Claims Lives During Religious Ceremony

Jordan's foreign ministry confirmed these fatalities, attributing them to heatstroke as a brutal heat wave grips the region.

The intense temperatures have also resulted in 17 Jordanian pilgrims being reported missing, with authorities actively searching for them.

The Iranian Red Crescent has also reported deaths of Iranian pilgrims, though the cause of these fatalities remains unclear.

Hajj Pilgrims Die: A Physically Demanding Journey in Extreme Conditions

The Hajj pilgrimage is a cornerstone of Islam, requiring pilgrims to perform physically demanding rituals over five days in the scorching Arabian desert.

This year, over 1.8 million pilgrims are participating, making it one of the world's largest mass gatherings.

While incidents like stampedes and fires have occurred in the past, the most significant yearly challenge is often the extreme heat.

Hajj Pilgrims Die: Temperatures Soar, Highlighting Heat Risks

This year is no exception, with temperatures exceeding 46°C (114.8°F) making the outdoor rituals particularly grueling, especially for older pilgrims.

Saudi Arabia's national meteorology center previously warned of above-average temperatures during the Hajj, with Mecca and Medina, the pilgrimage's central locations, expected to be 1.5 to 2 degrees Celsius hotter than usual.

The immense strain of these conditions is evident in the reports of over 225 cases of heat stress being treated near Mount Arafat.

Hajj Pilgrims Die: Authorities Scramble to Ensure Safety

Neron Khan, a Canadian pilgrim participating in the Hajj this year, spoke to AFP about the arduous nature of the pilgrimage, describing it as both "physically grueling" and "spiritually charged." She also recounted experiencing heat exhaustion during some rituals.

In response to the dangerous heat, Saudi authorities have implemented various measures to safeguard pilgrims' health. These efforts include creating climate-controlled areas, distributing water, and advising pilgrims on sun protection.

The Saudi health ministry further recommends staying hydrated and avoiding outdoor activities during the hottest hours of the day, typically between 10:00 AM and 4:00 PM.

Read more such news on techinsighttoday
Thank you so much for reading.