Elderly pilgrim collapses in Mina as heat hits 44°C
MAKKAH: A Bangladeshi pilgrim collapsed in front of an international media accommodation in Mina yesterday as temperatures soared to 44°C, highlighting the severe heat challenges faced by millions of Muslims performing haj this year.
The incident occurred about 3pm along King Abdullah Road here, where several media personnel, including Malaysians, were waiting for assignment transport.
The elderly man, still in his ihram garments, appeared disoriented and breathless before being helped by journalists who offered water and shade.
Recognising signs of possible heatstroke, they poured cold water over him and gave him water to drink in an attempt to stabilise him.
While waiting for medical assistance, the man suddenly collapsed. He was attended to again until health personnel arrived minutes later.
Emergency responders applied ice packs on his body and monitored his vital signs before taking him to a nearby healthcare facility for further treatment.
The incident highlights the physical toll of the pilgrimage amid extreme weather.
Temperatures yesterday ranged between 33°C and 44°C, with peak heat recorded between 9am and 3pm.
Pilgrims continued performing the stoning ritual on the three jamarat, part of the mandatory haj rites for the 11th,12th and 13th Zulhijjah.
Due to the extreme weather, government advisories have urged pilgrims to avoid the outdoors during peak hours. But many were still seen moving between 10am and 4pm.
In anticipation of the intense heat, Saudi authorities have introduced various mitigation strategies, including cloud seeding to induce rain, widespread misting stations, free drinking water, and fully equipped health facilities.
Educational campaigns have also been launched to encourage pilgrims to wear light clothing, stay hydrated and reduce physical activity during the day.
These measures, along with the swift actions of first responders, have helped reduce the number of heat-related incidents this haj season.
Today, pilgrims are expected to continue with the stoning ritual. Those choosing Nafar Awal will begin leaving Mina for Makkah before sunset to complete the remaining haj obligations — tawaf, sa'ie, and tahallul.
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