Throngs of pilgrims faced extreme heat during the annual Haj pilgrimage in Mecca, with temperatures soaring to 51.8°C (125.2°F), Saudi state TV reported.
Six Jordanians died from heat stroke, with the death toll later rising to 14. Iran reported 11 deaths and 24 hospitalizations, while Senegal confirmed three deaths. Indonesia reported 136 deaths, three due to heat stroke.
Past Haj events have seen fatalities from stampedes and fires, prompting Saudi Arabia to improve infrastructure. However, rising global temperatures pose new challenges.
A 2024 study indicated that worsening heat might outpace mitigation efforts, and a 2019 study warned of “extreme danger” for future pilgrims.
Despite the severe heat, a Saudi health official reported no unusual mortality rates among pilgrims, although over 2,700 were treated for heat-related illnesses. Pilgrims were advised to use umbrellas and stay hydrated, especially during peak heat hours from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
The Haj pilgrimage, a mandatory duty for able-bodied Muslims, will conclude on Wednesday, with over 1.8 million participants expected this year.