2024 Hajj Season Death Toll Surpasses 1,000

According to an AFP tally, the death toll from this year's Hajj pilgrimage has exceeded 1,000, with many fatalities attributed to the extreme heat in Saudi Arabia. Of these, over 658 deaths are reported from Egypt, with approximately 630 being unregistered pilgrims.

These high numbers underscore the severe challenges faced by pilgrims due to soaring temperatures, which reached almost 52 degrees celsius at Al Masjid-Al-Haram. Despite Saudi officials advising the use of umbrellas and staying hydrated, many essential rituals, such as the prolonged prayers on Mount Arafat, require extended outdoor exposure, increasing the risk of heat-related illnesses.