At least 14 Jordan citizens reportedly died during the annual Muslim Haj pilgrimage in Saudi Arabia and 17 others were missing, the Jordanian foreign ministry said on Sunday.
Among the deceased, six people died due to heat stroke, said the ministry. However, it is yet to determine the cause of death of others.
The annual Haj pilgrimage which will end on Wednesday is one of the largest mass gatherings globally and is currently underway in Saudi Arabia. Over 1.8 million pilgrims are participating this year, as per Saudi reports.
As the temperatures are expected to reach 47°C in Mecca on Monday, the Saudi health ministry issued an advisory due to soaring temperatures. Pilgrims are urged to stay hydrated and avoid outdoor activities during the hottest hours of the day.
The Jordanian foreign ministry is working closely with Saudi authorities to ensure proper procedures for burying or transporting the deceased, respecting their families’ wishes.
The Haj has witnessed tragic incidents over the past three decades, including stampedes, tent fires, and heat-related fatalities. In 2015, a deadly crush during the Haj near Mecca resulted in the loss of at least 2,070 lives.
