NCM Enhances Hajj Safety With Advanced Weather Monitoring Systems In Mina

The National Center for Meteorology (NCM) is actively engaged in Mina, offering crucial weather data to support safety measures and aid Hajj rituals. This initiative is part of a comprehensive system designed to ensure the well-being of pilgrims during the Day of Tarwiyah.

NCM employs cutting-edge technology, such as weather radars and satellite imagery, along with the Saudi numerical model. This ensures complete atmospheric monitoring over Makkah, the holy sites, Madinah, and their connecting routes. The centre's expert team provides hourly updates and forecasts to relevant authorities.

To enhance its capabilities, NCM has set up 16 automatic stations and two manned stations in Mina and Arafat. These stations have issued 1,920 hourly weather bulletins throughout the Hajj season. Additionally, a mobile monitoring centre and a round-the-clock operations room are in place to support these efforts.

For the Day of Tarwiyah in Mina, NCM releases 24 hourly Meteorological Aerodrome Reports (METAR) and eight surface synoptic observations (SYNOP) bulletins. These are accompanied by special reports and automated early warnings for severe weather conditions.

NCM anticipates maximum temperatures of 40°C and minimums of 29°C in Mina on the Day of Tarwiyah. Wind speeds may reach up to 65 km/h with humidity levels peaking at 65%. The skies are expected to be partly cloudy with some dust presence.

The centre also conducts awareness programs through its media production and awareness hub in Mina. Weather bulletins and safety messages are delivered in five languages across 14 media platforms using AI and advanced imaging technologies.

These efforts by NCM aim to provide comprehensive meteorological support during Hajj, ensuring that pilgrims can perform their rituals safely under informed conditions.

With inputs from SPA