Dozens of people have died amid scorching temperatures during the annual hajj pilgrimage to the holy city of Mecca in Saudi Arabia, according to reports from official media in Europe, the Middle East and Africa.
With forecasts saying that temperatures would top 113 degrees Fahrenheit, or 45 degrees Celsius, on Tuesday, Saudi officials issued advisories to pilgrims urging them to stay hydrated, minimize outdoor activities, and carry umbrellas to block direct sunlight.
While Saudi Arabia had not reported deaths, news reports from a number of countries whose faithful went to the hajj suggested that the heat had proven deadly.
On Sunday, Jordan’s official news agency said that 14 pilgrims had died from exposure to extreme sun and heat.
On Wednesday, the agency said that burial permits had been issued for 41 Jordanian pilgrims in Mecca, but did not provide details on the causes of death.
Organizations:
Saudi
Locations:
Mecca, Saudi Arabia, Europe, East, Africa