THE Saudi National Center for Meteorology has warned pilgrims participating in the 2026 Hajj exercise to prepare for extreme heat conditions, with temperatures expected to rise as high as 47 degrees Celsius during the pilgrimage period.
The agency urged pilgrims to take precautionary measures to avoid heat-related illnesses, particularly during outdoor religious activities in Makkah and the surrounding holy sites.
According to the advisory issued by Saudi authorities, pilgrims are encouraged to carry umbrellas while moving between locations and to drink water regularly to remain properly hydrated throughout the pilgrimage.
The advisory also urged pilgrims to avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight during peak daytime hours and to strictly comply with all health and safety instructions issued by Saudi officials during the Hajj exercise.
Authorities further circulated the Saudi emergency response number, 997, for pilgrims who may require urgent medical assistance.
The warning comes as millions of pilgrims from different parts of the world continue arriving in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia for the annual Hajj pilgrimage.
