Temperatures To Hit 72°C: Saudi Arabia Issues Health Advisory For Hajj Pilgrims
In an urgent advisory, the Ministry of Health (MoH) has highlighted significant health risks for Hajj pilgrims due to the extreme temperatures expected in Makkah holy sites during this year's pilgrimage. With surface temperatures potentially soaring to 72°C in certain mountainous areas, the MoH emphasizes the critical need for pilgrims to take preventative measures against the sun's intense heat.
The health authority has underscored the importance of avoiding prolonged exposure to sunlight, a health hazard under the current climatic conditions in Makkah. This year's Hajj season is particularly challenging due to the high temperatures, presenting what the MoH identifies as the primary difficulty for pilgrims.
To combat the risks associated with the scorching heat, the Ministry advises the use of umbrellas as a shield from direct sun exposure and encourages the intake of ample water throughout the day, irrespective of thirst. Moreover, pilgrims are strongly advised to heed all health-related instructions and recommendations meticulously. Specifically, they are urged to limit their outdoor activities and direct contact with hot surfaces, especially during the peak heat hours from 11 am to 3 pm.
Meanwhile, the National Center for Meteorology (NCM), in a significant collaboration with the Saudi Data and AI Authority (SDAIA), has recently unveiled a pioneering service designed to notify pilgrims of weather conditions in real-time. This innovative service, available through the "Tawakkalna Services" application, aims to enhance the Hajj experience by keeping pilgrims informed about the weather in Makkah and the surrounding holy sites.
The integration of data and artificial intelligence (AI) into theawakkalna Services app represents a leap forward in the use of modern technology to improve the services provided by government sectors involved in the Hajj. By offering an overview of weather conditions across all regions of the Kingdom, accessible 24/7, the app ensures that both residents and visitors are well-informed and prepared for any weather-related challenges they may face.
Particularly during the Hajj season, the service extends its coverage to the holy sites, issuing alerts and warnings about potential weather fluctuations, including variations in rain, temperature, and wind movements. This proactive approach to weather forecasting is expected to significantly contribute to the safety and comfort of the millions of pilgrims who visit these sacred sites each year.
The MoH's cautionary guidance comes at a critical time as thousands of pilgrims prepare to embark on the spiritual journey of Hajj, underscoring the importance of health and safety in the face of extreme weather conditions. By adhering to these precautions, pilgrims can significantly reduce their risk of health issues and ensure a safer pilgrimage experience.
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