A Saudi government spokesperson warned that temperatures could soar as high as 48 degrees Celsius as pilgrims prepare for the Hajj this week.
Saudi Health Ministry spokesperson Muhammad Al-Abdulaali highlighted the significant challenge posed by the high temperatures for this year’s Hajj season, set to begin on June 14.
“The ministry is making every effort to provide a healthy and safe environment for pilgrims amid the harsh climatic conditions,” said Al-Abdulaali.
The ministry urged pilgrims to follow health guidelines to stay safe in the extreme heat. Recommendations include carrying umbrellas, staying hydrated, and taking breaks between rituals to prevent heat exhaustion.
The National Center for Meteorology has forecasted temperatures in Makkah to range between 45 and 48 degrees Celsius, with little chance of rain, making conditions from hot to very hot.
The Kingdom has been making extensive preparations to ensure a safe and seamless Hajj pilgrimage this year.
For the first time, a mobile control and monitoring center equipped with sensors connected to the main roads has been launched. This system is designed to monitor and ensure smooth traffic flow within Makkah and the holy sites.
By tracking public transport vehicles in real-time, the high-tech system will measure traffic density along the routes designated for transporting pilgrims during the Hajj season.
Additionally, the General Authority for the Affairs of the Grand Mosque and the Prophet’s Mosque has deployed approximately 500 trained civilian security personnel. These personnel will assist in organizing and managing crowds throughout the Grand Mosque, in coordination with relevant authorities.
Trained teams will also monitor security and safety operations, protect property and individuals, and oversee the public facility systems within the Grand Mosque area.
