Jordanian and Iranian Authorities revealed that 19 Pilgrims from both countries died as temperature increases in Saudi Arabia.
“Fourteen Jordanian pilgrims died and 17 others were missing” during the performance of hajj rituals, Jordan’s foreign ministry said in a statement.
AFP reports that the ministry later confirmed that the 14 died “after suffering sunstroke due to the extreme heat wave.”
Temperatures have soared well above 40°C (104°F) during this year’s annual pilgrimage, which about 1.8 million Muslims are attending.
Many of the ceremonies take place outside and involve walking, posing difficulties, especially for older participants.
However, the kingdom has introduced measures to combat the heat, such as air-conditioned areas. They provide water and give pilgrims tips on staying safe in the sun.
Other countries, especially Nigeria, wasn’t left out as deaths were recorded amongst pilgrims.
Kwara, Lagos & Kebbi States have, at different times, disclosed news of pilgrims breathing their last.
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