Saudi Arabia has issued a stern warning to Hajj pilgrims this year, forecasting extreme heat conditions with temperatures soaring up to 47°C, along with risks of thunderstorms and reduced visibility.
The National Centre of Meteorology (NCM) released an advisory cautioning pilgrims about challenging weather expected across the holy sites during the pilgrimage season.
Daytime temperatures are expected to range between 40°C and 47°C, while nighttime lows will remain warm at 27°C to 32°C. Humidity levels are predicted to vary from 15% to 60%, potentially increasing discomfort for pilgrims.
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Dr. Ayman Ghulam, CEO of the NCM, noted that northerly to northwesterly winds blowing at speeds of 25 to 35 km/h could raise dust, significantly lowering visibility—especially in open areas and along highways leading to the holy sites.
He also warned of potential thunderstorms over the Taif highlands between the 8th and 13th of Dhu Al Hijjah. These storms might extend to Mecca and nearby areas, accompanied by strong downdrafts that could worsen dusty conditions, posing additional risks for pilgrims.
In response, authorities have urged all pilgrims to take necessary precautions, emphasizing hydration, the use of protective gear such as umbrellas, and closely following official weather updates to ensure health and safety.
Saudi officials also highlighted the Kingdom’s ongoing commitment to pilgrim welfare through various initiatives. Among these is the recently opened cooled pedestrian walkway in Mecca, part of the larger “Cooled Roads Initiative,” designed to reduce surface temperatures and improve comfort for millions of pilgrims facing the intense summer heat.
Experts have expressed concern about rising heat-related illness risks among Hajj pilgrims, attributing the trend to the broader effects of global warming on the region’s climate.
