Hajj Pilgrimage Ends in Saudi Arabia as Makkah hits 51.8°C

Amid a severe heat spike in Makkah, Saudi Arabia has issued an urgent warning as Muslim pilgrims conclude this year’s Hajj pilgrimage under extreme conditions. The intense heat has resulted in over 550 confirmed heat-related deaths. With sweltering temperatures reaching record highs, the safety and well-being of millions of pilgrims during the Hajj pilgrimage have become a significant concern. This year’s extreme weather highlights the growing challenges faced by those undertaking this sacred journey.

Heat Spike in Makkah: Record Temperatures

One of the world’s largest religious gatherings, the Hajj pilgrimage, unfolded during the intense Saudi summer this year. On Sunday alone, the Saudi health ministry reported over 2,700 cases of “heat exhaustion.” On Monday, temperatures at Makkah’s Grand Mosque reached a blistering 51.8°C (125°F), as pilgrims circled the Kaaba, the sacred black cubic structure at the heart of the pilgrimage.

In nearby Mina, temperatures soared to 46°C (115°F), where pilgrims participated in the ritual of “stoning the devil” by throwing stones at three concrete walls. This ritual, the last major step of the Hajj, was particularly grueling under the intense sun.

Rising Casualties Amidst the Heat Wave

The extreme heat has led to numerous fatalities among pilgrims:

• Jordan: The Jordanian foreign ministry reported 14 deaths due to sunstroke and noted that 17 pilgrims were missing.
• Iran: Iran confirmed five deaths, although the causes were not specified.
• Senegal: Senegal’s foreign ministry reported three deaths.
• Indonesia: An Indonesian health ministry official reported 136 deaths among Indonesian pilgrims, including at least three from heat stroke.

Measures to Combat Heat Exhaustion

The Saudi health ministry has been proactive in advising pilgrims to avoid sun exposure. On Sunday, the ministry recorded 2,764 cases of heat exhaustion, attributing many to “non-compliance with guidelines.” These guidelines emphasize the importance of taking shelter during peak sun hours, using umbrellas, and staying hydrated.

“We advise the guests of God not to be exposed to the sun,” the health ministry stated, highlighting the highest temperatures recorded since the beginning of Hajj. Authorities have been distributing cold drinks and ice cream to help pilgrims cope with the heat.

Climate Change and Future Hajj Pilgrimages

The impact of climate change on the Hajj pilgrimage is becoming increasingly evident. A recent Saudi study indicated that regional temperatures are rising by 0.4°C each decade, exacerbating the heat challenges faced by pilgrims. This year’s Hajj, occurring between June 14-19, drew approximately 1.8 million pilgrims, 1.6 million of whom traveled from abroad.

Pilgrims’ Struggles and Safety Efforts

Azza Hamid Brahim, a 61-year-old pilgrim from Egypt, described the harrowing scenes she witnessed in Mina. “It looked like Judgement Day, the end of time,” she said, recounting the sight of motionless bodies and overwhelmed ambulances. “We said to ourselves: ‘That’s it, we’re going to die’ because of the heatwave.”

Hosting the Hajj is a significant source of prestige for Saudi Arabia, and King Salman holds the title “Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques.” Crown Prince Mohammad bin Salman emphasized the country’s commitment to ensuring the safety and security of the pilgrims. “We are committed to providing everything that will serve those who visit the Two Holy Mosques and help them perform their worship in security and reassurance,” he stated.

The health ministry has pledged to closely monitor cases of heat exhaustion and ensure that pilgrims can complete their Hajj journey in good health.

The deadly heat spike during this year’s Hajj pilgrimage underscores the urgent need for robust measures to protect pilgrims from extreme weather conditions. As climate change continues to affect global temperatures, the safety of millions undertaking this sacred journey remains a critical concern.