Extreme Heat on Tarwiyah: How Pilgrims Can Prepare
On the day of Tarwiyah — the first day of Hajj — the temperature in Mina will rise to 45°C. The National Center of Meteorology has deployed 8 monitoring stations to ensure the safety of pilgrims in extreme conditions.
What to Expect for Pilgrims on the Day of Tarwiyah
The day of Tarwiyah — the first day of Hajj — traditionally coincides with a period of extreme heat in Saudi Arabia. This year, the temperature in the Mina valley will reach 45 degrees Celsius with a minimum temperature of 28 degrees. This will be accompanied by active northwesterly and northern winds of up to 35 km/h, dusty conditions, and high humidity. Such weather conditions pose a serious risk of heat stroke and dehydration, especially for elderly pilgrims and those making the pilgrimage for the first time in such harsh climate.
Monitoring System of the National Center of Meteorology
The National Center of Meteorology of Saudi Arabia has deployed a comprehensive observation system to track weather conditions in real-time. In Mina, there is one permanent monitoring station and one automatic station, plus four mobile automatic stations to track extreme phenomena. The center will issue 24 hourly meteorological bulletins and eight synoptic bulletins on the day of Tarwiyah, as well as special messages about hazardous weather conditions. All data is processed by highly professional staff using advanced technologies in accordance with international standards.
Practical Tips for Pilgrims
The Ministry of Health of Saudi Arabia recommends that pilgrims use umbrellas to protect themselves from direct sunlight and to prevent heat stroke and sunstroke. It is important to drink enough water — at least 2–3 liters a day, even if you do not feel thirsty. Wear light, loose clothing made of natural materials that allow the skin to breathe. Avoid physical exertion during the hottest hours — from 12 to 16 o'clock. If you feel dizziness, weakness, or confusion, immediately seek medical assistance, which is available at all stages of the pilgrimage.
Information Support in Five Languages
The National Center of Meteorology has launched a program to inform pilgrims in five languages — Arabic, English, French, Urdu, and Indonesian. This initiative aims to raise awareness of weather changes and enhance safety during the rituals of Hajj. Pilgrims will receive alerts about hazardous weather conditions through an automated early warning system, allowing them to take necessary precautions in a timely manner.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the maximum temperature expected on the day of Tarwiyah?
The maximum temperature in Mina will be 45 degrees Celsius with a minimum of 28 degrees. Add to this winds of up to 35 km/h and dusty conditions — and it poses a serious health risk without proper preparation.
How many monitoring stations have been deployed to control the weather?
The National Center of Meteorology has installed two permanent stations in Mina (one manned and one automatic) plus four mobile automatic stations, for a total of eight observation points for complete control of extreme conditions.
How often are meteorological bulletins issued on the day of Tarwiyah?
The center issues 24 hourly meteorological bulletins and eight synoptic bulletins on the day of Tarwiyah. In hazardous conditions, special urgent messages are issued through the automated early warning system.
