As the world's one of the biggest yearly religious events came to a close, authorities reported a staggering 2764 instances of heat exhaustion and sunstroke in just a single day. The Ministry urged event organizers to ensure pilgrims follow the guidelines to shield them from heat-related stress. Last year, over 2,000 pilgrims experienced heat stress during the Hajj as temperatures peaked at 48℃. The authorities emphasized that physical strain can result in heat stress, and it is crucial to have adequate rest and intervals between rituals. Previously, it was reported that at least 22 pilgrims had passed away, many due to 'extreme heat', underscoring the severe physical impact of the annual event held in Saudi during summer. Daily temperatures exceeded 40℃, reaching 46℃ on Mount Arafat where pilgrims engaged in prolonged outdoor prayers. Regarding heat-related fatalities, Jordan's foreign ministry confirmed the death of 14 Jordanian pilgrims from 'sun stroke due to the extreme heat wave', with 17 others unaccounted for. Iran announced the death of five pilgrims without detailing the cause, and Senegal's foreign ministry reported three deaths. Last year's Hajj saw at least 240 deaths, according to various countries' announcements, which did not specify the causes. A Saudi official revealed to AFP that over 10,000 heat-related illnesses were recorded last year, with 10 percent being heat stroke.
Text: Lara Palmer
17.06.2024
Over 2,700 Cases of Heat Exhaustion and Sunstroke Reported in a Single Day During Religious Event