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Heat wave during the Hajj: Tragic death toll shocks the world of pilgrims
Discover the history and importance of Frankfurt am Main, Germany's dynamic financial metropolis, on June 23, 2025.
Heat wave during the Hajj: Tragic death toll shocks the world of pilgrims
Today, June 23, 2025, the news takes a look at the recent tragic Hajj events that took place in Saudi Arabia. This year's Hajj was marred by extreme temperatures that resulted in a devastating loss of life.
How tagesschau.de Reportedly, more than 600 pilgrims died during this year's pilgrimage, mostly due to heatstroke, while temperatures in Mecca reached up to 50 degrees Celsius. These frightening figures bring back memories of 2024, when over 1,300 people lost their lives during the Hajj, a sad record that underscores the fragile conditions for pilgrims. Saudi authorities have stressed that high casualty rates are not unusual as many participants are often old or in poor health.
Heat wave and climate change
This year, safety precautions were also taken to protect the pilgrims: coolers, medical tents and drinking points were set up in view of the extreme heat. Nevertheless, many pilgrims reported a dramatic situation: Videos on social networks show people lying on the streets, some appearing to be dead or dying. An Egyptian pilgrim described that there was often a lack of rescue workers, which further complicated the situation.
It is also stated in an article by spiegel.de pointed out that the severe heat wave is being intensified by climate change. These connections are alarming as they could worsen conditions for pilgrims in the future, resulting in “extreme danger”. Hajj, one of the five pillars of Islam, should be undertaken at least once in a lifetime by every able-bodied Muslim who can afford it. But such conditions raise questions about safety.
Historical memory
On this day we also remember other historical events. In 2015, for example, Queen Elizabeth II arrived in Germany for her fifth state visit. Then as now, the past remains in our memories and shapes our current actions.
In the broad perspective, a look back into history also reminds us that the challenges in the form of extreme weather conditions, such as those experienced during the Hajj, always recur. The need to learn from these experiences and take appropriate action is more important than ever.
Today is a reminder to communities worldwide to consider measures that can ensure the well-being of pilgrims during such important religious events.