The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) has issued a heatwave advisory to Nigerian pilgrims in Saudi Arabia, urging them to avoid outdoor activities between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. due to soaring temperatures.
Saudi Arabia’s National Centre of Meteorology (NCM) forecast daytime temperatures ranging from 40°C to 47°C, with poor visibility and the possibility of thunderstorms. The NCM advised all pilgrims to exercise extreme caution while performing religious rites under these harsh weather conditions.
At a media briefing held in Makkah on Monday, NAHCON chairman Abdullahi Usman revealed that the commission held a meeting with state pilgrims’ welfare boards, resulting in a directive that no pilgrim should be outside their tents in Mina or Arafat during peak heat hours.
“Yesterday we called all the stakeholders. We met with them and mandated them to announce and tell their people that nobody is allowed to be out of the tent from 10 a.m. till 4 p.m.,” Usman stated.
He stressed that this year’s temperature levels are unusually high and that pilgrims’ health must remain the top priority. Usman advised pilgrims to stay hydrated and, if necessary to be outside, to carry water and use umbrellas for protection against the intense heat.
“It is not advisable to go out because the temperature is not normal this year. We also advised them to continue drinking water. If it is necessary to be outside, let them go with water in hand. Let them take their umbrellas and use them, just because the temperature is not normal,” he added.
To enhance public awareness, Usman called on the media to play a vital role in spreading NAHCON’s safety messages to the pilgrims.
“So, media, please, you are our eyes; you are our voice to the public. Help us tell our people to regard this instruction,” he urged.
This year, a total of 64,188 Nigerian pilgrims are expected to participate in the Hajj pilgrimage in Saudi Arabia.
Related Topics
- Police Investigate Mysterious Fatal Shooting of Teen Campers in Arizona
- How to Camp in Cities Without Drawing Attention
- Camping Demand Surges Nationwide Ahead of Summer and Eid Holidays