Saudi meteorological department issues heat alert for Haj

RIYADH: As the holy pilgrimage of Haj approaches, the National Center for Meteorology in Saudi Arabia has issued a warning of severe heat on Friday.

The Saudi meteorological department urged pilgrims to take precautionary measures during their spiritual journey. Pilgrims were advised to prepare for extremely hot conditions, with June 24 till June 29 projected as the hottest period of the year.

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This year Haj will rake place from June 14 till June 19, coinciding with the peak of the sweltering summer temperatures in the region. This has raised concerns about the well-being of millions of pilgrims who will gather in Makkah.

Authorities urged pilgrims to stay hydrated and seek shelter whenever possible. Pilgrims were told to wear loose, breathable clothing of natural fibres if possible. Authorities also told pilgrims to use umbrellas or other forms of protection from the sun.

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The Saudi government has also taken measures itself to mitigate the impact of the heat, including providing ample supplies of water, misting stations, and medical assistance throughout the pilgrimage sites. Accommodations have also been equipped with cooling systems.