Reported 11 months ago
The annual pilgrimage in Mecca, Saudi Arabia, commenced in extreme heat reaching 51 degrees Celsius, resulting in over 1,000 pilgrims reportedly succumbing to heatstroke and overheating due to the unprecedented high temperatures. Many of these pilgrims did not possess the necessary 'pilgrimage visa' issued by the Saudi Arabian government, causing uncertainty in determining the exact number of casualties. Various governments are swiftly intervening in the investigation process. The tragic incidents stemmed from a combination of intense heat, lack of official registration, overcrowding, and insufficient cooling facilities along the pilgrimage route, ultimately leading to a fatal outcome for many pilgrims. The rising global temperatures and inadequate preparations have also heightened the risks for pilgrims, with scientists warning that the current global temperature rise poses a fivefold increase in risk during pilgrimage. Authorities have highlighted the crucial need for proper registrations, improved arrangements, and enhanced safety measures to prevent such tragedies in the future.
Source: YAHOO