On Thursday, the Libyan Hajj mission spokesperson, Mohamed Al-Hadiri, confirmed the tragic deaths of eight Libyan pilgrims and the hospitalization of five others due to extreme heat exposure. Al-Hadiri explained in a video statement today that these incidents were caused by the soaring temperatures and prolonged exposure to the sun, particularly affecting elderly individuals and those with chronic illnesses.
The 1445 Hijri Hajj season has now concluded, with all Libyan pilgrims safely returning to their accommodations in Makkah. Al-Hadiri noted that the mission would begin transporting the Libyan pilgrims to Medina starting next Sunday, followed by their repatriation to Libya via 32 designated flights.
The intense heatwave in Saudi Arabia during the Hajj has posed severe health risks to pilgrims, exacerbating conditions for those already vulnerable due to age or pre-existing medical conditions. This unfortunate incident underscores the critical need for enhanced medical support and precautionary measures during the pilgrimage, which attracts millions from around the world each year.
The Hajj pilgrimage, one of the five pillars of Islam, requires Muslims to perform a series of rituals in and around Makkah over several days. The pilgrimage, which sees over two million participants annually, often coincides with the peak of summer, subjecting pilgrims to extreme heat. In recent years, Saudi authorities have implemented various safety protocols, including increased medical staff presence, hydration stations, shaded rest areas, and heat-awareness campaigns to mitigate heat-related health risks.
Despite these measures, the extreme weather conditions remain a significant challenge, particularly during the daytime when temperatures can soar above 40°C (104°F). Pilgrims, especially the elderly and those with pre-existing health conditions, are advised to stay hydrated, avoid direct sunlight, and take frequent breaks in shaded areas.
Libyan authorities have expressed their condolences to the families of the deceased and are working closely with Saudi officials to ensure the safe return of all remaining pilgrims. The mission has also emphasized the importance of adhering to health advisories and hydration guidelines to prevent further incidents.
As the Hajj season concludes, the focus now shifts to ensuring the well-being and safe return of all pilgrims. The Libyan mission continues to coordinate with Saudi health services to monitor and assist any pilgrims still experiencing health issues related to the heat.
