Saudi Arabia has issued a stern warning to pilgrims undertaking Hajj this year, forecasting extreme heat conditions with temperatures soaring as high as 47°C, alongside the risk of thunderstorms and reduced visibility.
The National Centre of Meteorology (NCM) released an advisory cautioning pilgrims about the challenging weather expected across the holy sites during the upcoming pilgrimage season.
Daytime temperatures are projected to range between 40°C and 47°C, while nighttime lows may remain warm, hovering between 27°C and 32°C. Humidity is predicted to vary between 15% and 60%, potentially exacerbating discomfort.
Dr Ayman Ghulam, CEO of the NCM, highlighted that northerly to northwesterly winds will blow at speeds of 25 to 35 km/h, potentially raising dust and significantly lowering visibility, especially in open areas and along highways leading to the holy sites.
He further warned of the possibility of thunderstorms forming over the Taif highlands between the 8th and 13th of Dhu Al Hijjah. These storms may extend to Mecca and surrounding areas, accompanied by strong downdrafts that could worsen dusty conditions, posing additional hazards for pilgrims.
In light of these forecasts, authorities have urged all pilgrims to take necessary precautions to protect themselves. Hydration, the use of protective gear such as umbrellas, and adherence to official weather updates have been emphasised as critical for health and safety.
Saudi officials also highlighted the Kingdom’s continuing commitment to pilgrim welfare through various initiatives. Notably, the recently inaugurated cooled pedestrian walkway in Mecca, part of the broader “Cooled Roads Initiative,” aims to reduce surface temperatures and enhance comfort for the millions of pilgrims during the intense summer heat.
Experts have expressed concern over the rising risks of heat-related illnesses among Hajj pilgrims, linking the trend to the broader impact of global warming on the region’s climate.
