Deadly Heatwave Claims Over 1,300 Lives in 2024 Mecca Hajj Pilgrimage
Extreme temperatures reaching 51°C led to the deaths of more than 1,300 pilgrims during the 2024 Hajj pilgrimage in Mecca, with a high percentage of victims being aged over 50. The tragedy highlighted the risks increased by climate change, signaling a need for improved infrastructure and medical support in future pilgrimages.
Record Heat Claims Over 1,300 Lives During 2024 Hajj Pilgrimage
More than 1,300 pilgrims died during the 2024 Hajj pilgrimage in Mecca, Saudi Arabia, largely due to heat stress under extreme temperatures that reached 51°C (125°F). The annual Islamic pilgrimage, which took place from June 14 under scorching conditions, attracted around 1.8 million participants.
Among the deceased were at least 215 Indonesians. Heru Jumartiyah recounted how her 86-year-old father, Ngatijo Wongso Sentono, died on June 17 in Mina, a site southeast of Mecca, while awaiting midday prayers. Sentono had been in good health and had been eagerly anticipating the pilgrimage since his registration in 2018.
The majority of victims were aged over 50, and many belonged to Southeast Asian nations. Saudi health minister Fahd bin Abdurrahman Al-Jalajel reported that 83% of the fatalities involved unauthorized pilgrims. These individuals, who did not have official Hajj permits, faced greater hardships due to the lack of organized tours and essentials like water and shelter.
The extreme heat led to reports of pilgrims collapsing and dying from heat exposure. Saudi authorities faced criticism for inadequate infrastructure and insufficient medical aid. Witnesses described scenes of bodies covered in white cloth and an overwhelming need for basic resources.
Previous deadly incidents have marked the Hajj pilgrimage, but this year’s heatwave has underscored the increasing risks posed by climate change. Climatologist Maximiliano Herrera emphasized that higher nighttime temperatures, which used to offer respite, now exacerbate the conditions for pilgrims.
Efforts to address these challenges remain crucial as Hajj continues to attract millions annually, fulfilling a core tenet of the Islamic faith.
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