MAKKAH: Saudi Arabia’s meteorological authority has forecast extreme heat conditions in Makkah during the Hajj pilgrimage, warning that temperatures could rise to as high as 47 degrees Celsius by May 25.
As per Saudi weather department, the temperature is expected to climb to 44-degree centigrade in Madinah in the coming days.
The alert also predicted that humidity during the rituals of Hajj would stand at 40 percent while dust winds would also affect open places. Thunderstorms and rains are also expected in the hilly zones of Jazan, Aseer, Al Baha and certain areas of Makkah province.
As per Saudi Press Agency report, the authorities had advised pilgrims to strictly follow safety guidelines, stay hydrated and avoid direct exposure to sun rays.
The Saudi authorities further said that the number of foreign pilgrims who have already reached the Kingdom exceeded 1.518 million till Friday afternoon out of which 1.457 million have reached here by air.
On the first Friday of Dhul Hijjah, millions of worshippers performed their prayers in Masjid-al-Haram. It is worth mentioning that the most important ritual of Hajj ‘Wuquf-e-Arafah’ will be performed on May 26.
Millions arrive in Makkah for annual Hajj pilgrimage
Meanwhile, the number of pilgrims arriving in Saudi Arabia for Hajj has reached 1.518 million, according to officials overseeing Hajj security operations.
According to officials responsible for Hajj security management in a press conference held in Makkah, 1,518,000 pilgrims from different parts of the world have come to the Kingdom for Hajj.
It was revealed that 30 percent of pilgrims have arrived through the scheme named “Makkah Route Initiative.” This initiative aims to facilitate immigration and travel procedures before arriving at Saudi Arabia.
The authorities further disclosed that advance technological devices are being used for the convenience of the pilgrims to cope with huge crowds in Hajj. Although no details were provided, it was emphasized that digital tools are proving effective in managing the pilgrim crowds.
Millions of Muslims are performing congregational prayers in Masjid al-Haram on the first Friday of Dhul Hijjah. The Friday sermon emphasized the spiritual importance of the first ten days of this month of Islam.
This year witnessed a major improvement in security and service facilities provided to the pilgrims owing to the increased figure of pilgrims.
