Hajj 2026 Peak Forecasted to Reach 47°C

Extreme heat is forecasted to occur in Mecca, Saudi Arabia, during the 2026 Hajj peak, which begins today, Monday, 25 May. Citing Arab News, Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Health has urged pilgrims to regularly use umbrellas to prevent heat exhaustion, sunstroke, and dehydration while moving between holy sites. Umbrellas are said to lower the surrounding temperature for pilgrims by up to 10°C and reduce physical strain during Hajj rituals. The warning follows Saudi Meteorological Centre’s forecast of extreme heat along pilgrims’ movement routes during the Hajj peak starting today. Temperatures are expected to reach 47°C in Mecca and 44°C in Medina, with humidity up to 40% and dusty winds in open areas. In addition to high temperatures, dusty winds in open areas pose an added risk to pilgrims’ health. This year, approximately 1.6 million pilgrims are expected to gather in Mecca for the Hajj. Meanwhile, Indonesia’s Ministry of Hajj and Umrah (Kemenhaj) has advised pilgrims to maintain physical health, rest adequately, eat regularly, drink sufficient water, and pack only essential items. ‘Bring only necessary items such as identity documents, pilgrim cards, identification bracelets, personal medication, masks, water bottles, prayer essentials, sufficient clothing, comfortable footwear, and personal hygiene items. Avoid carrying large suitcases, heavy items, excessive jewellery, or large amounts of cash,’ said Kemenhaj spokesperson Maria Assegaff. Indonesian pilgrims’ movement from hotels to Arafah will commence today, 8 Dhu al-Hijjah, in three staggered shifts at 7am, 11:30am, and 4:30pm local time.