Jordanian officials have confirmed that 14 citizens lost their lives during the Hajj pilgrimage in Saudi Arabia due to intense heat.
The foreign ministry stated that these individuals died from sunstroke caused by the extreme heatwave, while an additional 17 are reported missing.
The Iranian Red Crescent also reported five Iranian pilgrims’ deaths, although the exact cause was not specified. Search efforts are ongoing for the missing individuals, as confirmed by Jordanian authorities.
The Jordanian foreign ministry is working with Saudi authorities to handle the burial or transportation of the deceased in accordance with their families’ wishes.
Hajj, a fundamental religious obligation for Muslims, draws millions of participants annually. This year, over 1.8 million pilgrims are taking part, according to Saudi officials.
The pilgrimage has historically faced challenges, including deadly incidents such as stampedes and fires. However, extreme heat remains a recurring issue.
With temperatures exceeding 46°C (114.8°F), outdoor rituals, especially for the elderly, become physically demanding.
Saudi Arabia’s national meteorology center warned of elevated temperatures, particularly in Mecca and Medina, the central locations for the Hajj rituals.
A treatment center near Mount Arafat reported 225 cases of heat stress.
As part of heat mitigation efforts, Saudi officials have established climate-controlled areas, distributed water, and provided guidance on sun protection.
The health ministry advised pilgrims to stay hydrated and avoid outdoor activities during peak heat hours.
Last year, at least 240 fatalities were recorded during Hajj, while the 2015 disaster saw over 2,000 deaths in a tragic crush.
Source-BBC
