Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Hajj has warned that pilgrims performing Hajj this year are likely to face intense heat in Mecca, with temperatures expected to rise to as high as 47 degrees Celsius by May 25, 24NewsHD TV reported on Saturday.
According to Saudi weather authorities, temperatures in Medina could also reach 44 degrees Celsius during the pilgrimage season.
The department said humidity levels during Hajj rituals are expected to remain around 40 percent, while dusty winds may affect open areas frequented by pilgrims.
Weather officials also forecast possible thunderstorms and rainfall in the mountainous regions of Jazan, Asir, Al Baha and parts of the Makkah region.
According to the Saudi Press Agency, authorities have urged pilgrims to strictly follow safety guidelines, drink plenty of water and avoid dehydration during extreme weather conditions.
Saudi officials said the number of foreign pilgrims arriving in the kingdom had surpassed 1.518 million by Friday afternoon, with more than 1.457 million entering the country by air.
On the first Friday of Dhu al-Hijjah, millions of worshippers offered Friday prayers at Masjid al-Haram.