Ömer F Arslan/Unsplash
From News Desk
As Hajj 2025 begins, preparations have been made, with forecasts placing temperatures at a scorching peak of up to 47°C. Consequently, pilgrims face huge heat stress. The 2024 Hajj pilgrimage witnessed tragic losses, with over 1,300 deaths because of heat. Hence, Saudi authorities have decided to take stronger safety measures for Hajj 2025.
To combat the heat, Saudi Arabia has installed over 400 misting and cooling stations across key sites. Additionally, they expanded shaded areas by 50,000 square meters.
Notably, the government also introduced heat-reflective “white roads” to keep ground temperatures lower. The Cooled Roads Initiative, in particular, developed a cooled pedestrian walkway to bring additional ease and comfort for pilgrims.
AI-powered drones now monitor crowds to prevent stampedes and detect potential heat emergencies.
Pilgrims also receive health monitoring via new smartwatches. Specifically, these devices enable the Mecca Health Cluster to track vital signs remotely, ensuring swift medical aid.
Furthermore, the Ministry of Health expanded its 937 Medical Hotline. In particular, the service now operates in seven languages, including Arabic, English, Urdu, Farsi, and French. In fact, the ministry has encouraged pilgrims to take note of the hotline number, as they safeguard their health througout Hajj 2025.
Correspondingly, this ensures comprehensive support for diverse pilgrim groups, from real-time medical consultations, emergency response, and redirecting callers to nearby health facilities.
Meanwhile, authorities have strategically positioned additional mobile clinics and hospitals throughout Makkah and Madinah.
Overall, authorities strongly advise pilgrims to avoid direct sun during peak hours. Specifically, on Arafah Day, they recommend staying in tents instead of open sites like Jabal Al Rahmah.
Furthermore, umbrellas and water are essential tools for every pilgrim to beat the heat.
In particular, the National Centre of Meteorology (NCM) released a weather advisory forecasting and detailing the hot conditions. Daytime temperatures can fall anywhere between 40°C and 47°C and between 27°C and 32°C at nighttime. Meanwhile, humidity levels may vary, shifting between 15°C and 60°C.
Furthermore, thunderstorms may develop over the Taif highlands. These storms may bring strong downdrafts, which may exacerbate dust.
With temperatures soaring, Saudi Arabia is determined to ensure a safe and smooth Hajj passage. Through modern technology, medical support and strict regulation, the KSA aims to prevent tragedies like those in 2024.
Generally, authorities urge pilgrims to follow all guidelines.
News N Opinions... 