At least 14 Jordanian pilgrims have tragically lost their lives during the Haj pilgrimage in Saudi Arabia due to an “extreme heat wave,” Jordan’s foreign ministry confirmed on Sunday. Additionally, 17 other Jordanian pilgrims remain missing.
The ministry reported that the deceased Jordanian nationals suffered fatal strokes as a result of the severe heat wave, as per AFP. Efforts are underway to coordinate with Saudi Arabia authorities for either the burial of the deceased in Saudi Arabia or their repatriation to Jordan.
Iran also reported the deaths of five Iranian pilgrims during the Haj, although they did not specify the cause of death.
Saudi Arabia has not yet issued an official statement regarding the fatalities. However, Mohammed Al-Abdulaali, spokesperson for the Saudi Health Ministry, disclosed that more than 2,760 pilgrims suffered from sunstroke and heat waves on Sunday alone.
Al-Abdulaali emphasized the severity of the situation, urging pilgrims to avoid outdoor activities during peak hours and to stay adequately hydrated. “Heat stress is the greatest challenge,” he remarked, according to the Associated Press.
Forecasters predict temperatures in Mecca to soar to 47 degrees Celsius on Monday, as reported by Reuters.
The annual hajj pilgrimage is set to conclude on Wednesday and is anticipated to draw over 1.8 million pilgrims this year, according to the Saudi General Authority for Statistics. Last year, the pilgrimage saw significant heat-related challenges, with thousands experiencing heat stress and over 240 deaths reported, predominantly from Indonesia.
Authorities continue to monitor the health and safety of pilgrims closely amid the challenging weather conditions in Mecca.
