Hajj pilgrimage to Makkah is a lifelong ambition of many Muslims. To perform Hajj, Muslims from all around the world visit the holy city of Makkah. However, Hajj is an act of worship that is performed in the morning time and the pilgrims are exposed to direct heat while performing the rituals. The intensity of the temperature is sometimes up to 50°C which poses great health risks.
Therefore, Hajj safety in hot weather is very important for a smooth pilgrimage. In this article, we will discuss the impact of climate change on Hajj pilgrimage and also how to overcome health issues.
What happens due to climate change and Hajj?
Hajj is a spiritual journey that everyone desires to get a chance to perform once in a lifetime. However, this year Hajj falls in the month of June which is typically the hottest month of the year in many areas around the globe. The temperature during Hajj rises till 50°C which can cause great health problems.
The heat problems can arise due to the following reasons during Hajj:
Temperature:
The primary reason of heat is the temperature that rises as Hajj takes place in summer. The temperature in Saudi Arabia can soar above 50°C and cause risks to pilgrims.
More humidity:
Due to high temperatures, humidity increases which make it difficult for the body to cool down.
Crowds:
Hajj is a crowded condition, when combined with heat it causes congestion and causes suffocation. Moreover, due to large crowds it is difficult to have access to water quickly and cause heart related illness.
Vulnerable people:
Pilgrims with pre-existing health conditions for instance, heart problems, respiratory problems, people with anxiety problems, children and pregnant women are more likely at risk. However, one must be careful according to their health issues to prevent mishaps during the pilgrimage.
These are the primary risks of high temperatures during Hajj:
- Heatstroke
- Heat exhaustion
- Heat stress
- Dehydration
- Muscle cramps
- Dizziness
- Nausea
How can I lower the impact of heat risk?
When at a place where it is too hot or there are large crowds, one must follow precautionary measures to make sure the health stays stable so that the journey also becomes enjoyable.
These are a few tips you can follow to stay safe during Hajj extreme heat days:
Stay hydrated:
During hot days it is necessary that you drink plenty of water and stay hydrated. Avoid taking sugary and caffeinated drinks.
Wear light clothes:
It is recommended to wear light color clothing in hot weather and also wear light weight fabric that is breathable.
Sunscreen:
Use sunscreen regularly to protect your skin from sun burn.
Take rest:
It is advisable to take breaks regularly in shaded and cool areas to give rest to your body.
Direct sunlight:
During sunny days it is better to stay away from direct sunlight.
Medical help:
If you notice heat stress signs even after following all the safety tips, then you must seek medical help immediately.
The weather impact on Hajjhas changed significantly among past few years. This change causes a lot of health problems among the pilgrims and often poses death risks. To solve this problem Saudi authorities have made some positive changes for example:
- More shaded areas, tents or canopies
- Cooling systems have been installed at various locations to lower the body temperature.
- Medical services are made easily accessible for pilgrims in case of emergency.
- Water coolers or stations are made available for pilgrims to keep them hydrated.
Global warming and Hajj:
Due to global warming the rising temperatures have caused a lot of health problems during Hajj. However, due to heat we cannot stop our important tasks and rituals instead we can look for safety measures. So during the Hajj pilgrimage it is important to be mindful of the safety measures and avoid strenuous activities to prevent heat stress.
If you go with a verified VIP Hajj service provider then you will get the best facilities during Hajj with 5 star accommodations. Luxury transportation and air conditioned tents in Mina with attached washroom are some of the major perks offered by Maktab A Hajj service providers.
