Hajj Pilgrims Tackle Extreme Heat with Cooling Measures in Mecca
With ice cream and giant fans, hajj pilgrims beat heat
Inquirer
Image: Inquirer
As over 1.5 million pilgrims gather in Mecca for the Hajj, extreme temperatures exceeding 40°C (104°F) pose significant challenges. Authorities have implemented cooling systems, including air conditioning and mist sprayers, while healthcare staff remain on standby to assist those affected by heat-related illnesses.
- 01Temperatures in Mecca are expected to reach between 42°C and 47°C during the Hajj, making outdoor activities challenging for pilgrims.
- 02Saudi Arabia has deployed advanced air conditioning systems, large fans, and mist sprayers at the Grand Mosque to alleviate heat stress.
- 03Healthcare teams, including over 50,000 staff and 3,000 ambulances, are prepared to assist pilgrims, with 144 heatstroke cases reported prior to the Hajj.
- 04Pilgrims are advised to stay hydrated and seek shade, with many utilizing ice cream stands and indoor spaces to cool down.
- 05The Hajj pilgrimage begins officially on Monday, with key rites taking place in harsh outdoor conditions.
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In Mecca, Saudi Arabia, over 1.5 million pilgrims are preparing for the Hajj pilgrimage amidst extreme heat, with temperatures expected to soar between 42°C and 47°C (107.6°F to 116.6°F). Many pilgrims, like Inas Gamal from Egypt, have opted to stay indoors during the hottest parts of the day to avoid heat-related illnesses. To combat the sweltering conditions, the Saudi government has installed powerful air conditioning systems in the Grand Mosque, along with large fans and mist sprayers throughout the area. Free bottles of ice-cold water are distributed to help keep pilgrims hydrated. Despite these measures, the intense heat has already led to reports of heatstroke among attendees, prompting the Saudi health ministry to prepare over 50,000 healthcare staff and 3,000 ambulances for emergencies. Pilgrims are encouraged to drink plenty of fluids and find shade, as they prepare for the various rites of Hajj, including the critical gathering at Mount Arafat, where shade is scarce.
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The extreme heat poses health risks to pilgrims, necessitating extensive medical support and hydration measures.
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