Saudi steps up precautions as soaring heat test Hajj pilgrims

TDT | Manama  

The Daily Tribune – www.newsofbahrain.com

Muslims who have flocked to Islam’s holiest sites for the annual Hajj pilgrimage are confronted with the blunt reminder of soaring heat. But thankfully, the Saudi government has put crucial measures in place to keep pilgrims safe during the ritual.

The timing of Hajj is determined by the Islamic calendar, and this year it falls within the most extreme temperatures that Saudi Arabia faces. A study released by scientists from Climate Analytics, an international climate science and policy institute, was the first to reveal that just half a degree of extra global warming between 1.5C and 2C makes a big difference in terms of the heat stress posed to Muslims carrying out religious rites in Saudi Arabia during the summer.

The annual Hajj pilgrimage can be physically draining even in ideal conditions, as it is intended to test temperament and patience while also being emotionally, spiritually, and physically challenging. But amid the scorching sun and thronging crowds, devout Muslims will have an added challenge to face this year due to the heat.

And as a considerable amount of walking is expected with the Hajj pilgrimage, it is a strenuous challenge to keep cool during the high temperatures. Thankfully, the Saudi government provides various measures to keep pilgrims safe during the blazing temperatures.

Mrs. Shahla, who hails from Uzbekistan and went to the Hajj from Bahrain, said, "Outside the Grand Mosque in Mecca, officials arrange for water to be sprayed out of mist fans to provide relief to the pilgrims. From time to time, the heat can become just too much.

But luckily, you are not alone in the five-to six-day ritual; from policemen spraying cool water to air-conditioned floors and locals and other pilgrims handing out water and food, it makes the ritual much easier," she said.

She, however, confirmed that many Muslims come prepared with water and other necessities, awaiting the long trek under the blistering sun. Along with Mrs. Shahla, Ali, a Bahraini who successfully completed Hajj the previous year, said that many pilgrims use umbrellas, a simple tool that protects them from direct sunlight.

In Islam, it is forbidden for men to wear hats once the Hajj rites begin. Because of this, Ali said that it is common to see men shielding themselves with buckets, bags, and prayer mats. "Although the temperatures will be extreme for Muslims this year, we are just happy to gain this once-in-a-lifetime experience, no matter the obstacles we may face," he said.

Preparations are confirmed for Hajj

Saudi officials have announced that preparations are complete for the extreme temperatures, with emergency units and support teams available 24 hours a day for Hajj pilgrims.

And with more than two million pilgrims expected to partake in the holy pilgrimage, ensuring sanitized food and drink is of prime importance during the hot summer month, Hajj officials told the media.

The Hajj pilgrimage is a once-in-a-lifetime journey for Muslims, providing them with a chance to feel closer to Allah and the prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). It is a significant journey for Muslims to take, but it is also important for pilgrims to take the necessary precautions to protect their health while undertaking the five-day journey.