Nineteen Hajj pilgrims dead in Saudi Arabia due to heat wave, 17 others missing

At least 19 pilgrims from Jordan and Iran have tragically died while attending the hajj pilgrimage in Saudi Arabia. Both Jordanian and Iranian authorities have confirmed the deaths of their respective pilgrims during the hajj rituals. The Jordanian foreign ministry stated that 14 pilgrims had passed away and 17 others were missing, attributing the deaths to sun stroke from the extreme heat wave. Iranian Red Crescent chief Pirhossein Koolivand reported that five Iranian pilgrims had also lost their lives in Mecca and Medina during this year’s hajj.

The hajj is a fundamental pillar of Islam that every Muslim with the means must undertake at least once in their lifetime. This year, the pilgrimage has been attended by approximately 1.8 million Muslims amidst scorching temperatures exceeding 40 degrees Celsius. The rituals, most of which are conducted outdoors and on foot, present challenges, especially for elderly pilgrims. However, Saudi Arabia has implemented measures to mitigate the heat, such as climate-controlled areas, water distribution, and sun protection guidance for pilgrims.

Last year, over 240 individuals, many from Indonesia, died during the hajj, with causes of death not specifically disclosed. A Saudi official mentioned that there were more than 10,000 heat-related illnesses recorded, with 10 percent being heat stroke cases. A Saudi study has indicated that regional temperatures are steadily increasing, potentially surpassing current mitigation efforts as heat-related incidents continue to pose risks during the hajj pilgrimage.