Jordanian Pilgrims Succumb to Heat Stroke in Mecca

Tragedy Strikes During Hajj Pilgrimage

Tragedy strikes during Hajj pilgrimage as 14 Jordanian pilgrims lose their lives and 17 others go missing due to extreme heat and sun exposure. Climate change raises concerns for pilgrim safety during the sacred journey.

A devastating incident has occurred during the hajj, resulting in the loss of 14 Jordanian pilgrims' lives and leaving 17 others unaccounted for. The incident has raised concerns about the safety and well-being of pilgrims during the holy journey.

According to Jordan's Foreign Ministry, the 14 pilgrims who lost their lives succumbed to extreme heat and sun exposure, which reached scorching temperatures of nearly 110°F (43.3°C) on Sunday. This incident highlights the growing concern that climate change will exacerbate health risks for pilgrims, as recent research has warned.

Sadly, this is not an isolated incident. Previous years have also seen devastating losses of life, including stampede-related deaths, which have resulted in significant fatalities. In 2015, a devastating stampede occurred, resulting in over 700 pilgrims being tragically killed.

The Hajj pilgrimage, one of the five pillars of Islam, entails a number of outdoor rites in Mecca and the surrounding desert, which can be particularly challenging in extreme weather conditions. Scientists have cautioned that extreme weather can arise during the lunar calendar-based hajj, which took place this year in the summer.

However, Saudi authorities have implemented relief measures to combat heat stress, including the use of water mist sprays, provision of water, umbrellas, and air-conditioned vehicles for pilgrims. According to scientists, these measures have resulted in a decrease in heat-related cases.

Despite these efforts, the recent incident highlights the ongoing risks and challenges faced by pilgrims during this sacred journey. As the Hajj continues to be an important aspect of Islamic faith, it is crucial to prioritize the safety and well-being of pilgrims.