The Hajj pilgrimage, one of the most significant events in the Islamic calendar, turned tragic in 2024 as extreme heat claimed the lives of numerous pilgrims in Mecca, Saudi Arabia. This year, the pilgrimage coincided with a severe heatwave, causing temperatures to soar to dangerous levels, exacerbating the challenges faced by the millions of Muslims gathered to perform their religious duties
The 2024 Hajj was marked by unprecedented heat, with temperatures reaching as high as 48°C (118°F) in Mecca. Such extreme weather conditions are not uncommon in the region; however, this year’s temperatures were particularly brutal. The Saudi National Meteorology Centre had warned that the average temperatures during the Hajj would be 1.5 to 2 degrees Celsius higher than usual.
The searing heat led to widespread cases of heat exhaustion and sunstroke among the pilgrims. According to reports, over 2,760 pilgrims suffered from heat-related illnesses on a single day, underscoring the severe impact of the heatwave. The Saudi health ministry and various humanitarian organizations were on high alert, providing medical assistance and distributing water to prevent dehydration and other heat-related health issues.
The intense heatwave resulted in the deaths of dozens of pilgrims. Initial reports indicated that at least 14 Jordanian pilgrims succumbed to sunstroke, while other casualties included pilgrims from Egypt and Iran. The Iranian Red Crescent Society reported that at least five Iranian pilgrims died due to the extreme conditions, many of whom were elderly.
The fatalities included vulnerable individuals who were unable to withstand the harsh temperatures. The Egyptian delegation reported the deaths of nine pilgrims, including a toddler who tragically passed away due to the heat. Additionally, Moroccan sources confirmed the deaths of several of their nationals, some of whom had underlying health issues exacerbated by the heat.
The Saudi authorities undertook numerous measures to mitigate the impact of the heat on the pilgrims. Climate-controlled areas were set up, and water bottles were distributed widely. In addition, efforts were made to cool down large areas by spraying water vapor. Despite these measures, the scale of the heatwave posed significant challenges.
The pilgrimage requires participants to engage in several physically demanding rituals, many of which involve long walks under the open sun. This year, the rituals coincided with the hottest hours of the day, increasing the risk of heat-related illnesses. The Saudi health ministry issued advisories urging pilgrims to stay hydrated and avoid outdoor activities during peak heat hours from 10 AM to 4 PM.
The tragedy during Hajj 2024 highlights the broader implications of climate change, particularly in regions already susceptible to extreme weather conditions. The World Meteorological Organization (WMO) has indicated that global temperatures are likely to continue rising, leading to more frequent and intense heatwaves in the future.
For the millions of Muslims who perform Hajj annually, these climatic changes necessitate more robust and adaptive measures to ensure their safety. The Saudi authorities, along with international health organizations, will need to develop comprehensive strategies to address the challenges posed by rising temperatures. This includes enhancing infrastructure to provide better shade and cooling, increasing the availability of medical resources, and possibly adjusting the timing of certain rituals to avoid peak heat periods.
The extreme heat during Hajj 2024, which resulted in the deaths of dozens of pilgrims, serves as a stark reminder of the vulnerability of large gatherings to climate-related hazards. While the Saudi authorities took significant steps to mitigate the heat’s impact, the severity of the weather underscored the need for continuous improvements in safety measures. As global temperatures rise, ensuring the safety and well-being of pilgrims during Hajj will require adaptive and forward-thinking solutions that address the evolving climate challenges.
