The annual Hajj pilgrimage to Mecca, a pillar of Islam, turned tragic this year as extreme heat claimed the lives of at least 1,301 worshippers. The scorching temperatures, reaching up to 125 degrees, resulted in a high number of casualties, with the majority being unauthorized pilgrims, according to official reports released by the government of Saudi Arabia.
The fatalities were delayed in identification and tallying due to the lack of proper identification for many of the victims. With the ongoing global heatwave, this year’s Hajj faced unprecedented challenges, leading to a significant number of deaths. Climate scientists warn that the impact of global warming is already being felt, and the consequences will only worsen in the future.
As one of the five pillars of Islam, the Hajj holds immense significance for Muslims worldwide. However, the lack of proper permits and extreme conditions put many pilgrims at risk. The Saudi government provides amenities for registered pilgrims, but unauthorized individuals often face severe hardships during the pilgrimage.
