Over 1,300 pilgrims lost their lives during the Saudi Arabian Hajj in 2024 as a result of the intense heat and unruly crowding. Highs of 120°F resulted in widespread heatstroke and dehydration. People were collapsing in the streets, according to witnesses, with undocumented pilgrims being disproportionately affected by the lack of appropriate housing. The situation was made worse by road closures and detours, which left pilgrims trapped in the sweltering sun for hours. The exceptional heatwave brought attention to the urgent need for increased safety measures, even in spite of the fact that Saudi authorities supplied considerable medical aid and emergency services. This tragedy serves as a reminder of how difficult it is becoming to control large crowds when climate change intensifies.
References:
Lebedeva, N., Chow , D., & Aggarwal, M. (2024b, June 26). Deaths during hajj: How the pilgrimage turned fatal. NBCNews.com. https://www.nbcnews.com/science/environment/deaths-hajj-pilgrimage-heat-rcna158996
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