Annual Hajj Pilgrimage 2024 is approaching and over two million Pilgrims will perform Hajj this year as 30 million people performed Umrah in Ramadan. The Saudi Meteorological Department has issued a temperature Forecast for Hajj 2024. It is expected that sweltering temperatures will have a severe effect on the pilgrims.
Eiman Ghulam, who is the head of the Saudi National Centre for Meteorology, told the local media about the challenges associated with the summer heat. Hajj will be in June this year which is the most hot period with extreme heat and humidity. According to him, discussions are under process about how what will be the potential effects of this heatwave on the pilgrims.
He later told the media that the well-being of pilgrims is of prime importance to the local authorities. For that matter, logistical aspects have been reviewed and revised to make them efficient. The drinks and food provisions for pilgrim camps are crucial in this regard and the relevant authorities must stay updated about the weather so they can make necessary arrangements accordingly in time.
The Saudi Government officials ensured that they were on high alert and all the possible resources had been mobilised to offer maximum facilities and support for the pilgrims. The Saudi Authorities have taken unprecedented steps in this regard, Cooling technologies, ample hydration stations, and shaded rest areas have been set up to deal with the heat-related risks.
Medical teams will also be on standby to address any heat-related health issues immediately. Hajj season is approaching, and the importance of these preparations cannot be overstated. The proactive approach of the Saudi Government plans to ensure a safe pilgrimage despite the challenging weather conditions.
Tips for Pilgrims to deal with Heat during Hajj 2024
1. Drink more and more water and avoid fizzy drinks. Carry a water bottle for this purpose and refill it as soon as you find water. Zam Zam URNs are usually around. If not, replace it with a new bottle.
2. Use a Non-Scented Sunscreen as it will protect your skin from the heat and scorching sun rays.
3. Use lightweight clothes as sometimes some clothes are thick and insulating. Wear something with a cotton blend so you might feel fresh.
4. Rest is very important and do take rest when you get a chance between the rituals as it will relax your body.
5. Hydrated food is a good option during Hajj as it will keep the body hydrated, and the water content will keep you fresh.
6. Try to avoid the peak hours as it gets very hot during that time same applies to tawaf, Sai, and Arafah Rituals and stoning of the devil rituals.
