…As Nigerians join over 1.5 million global Muslims to commence exercise in Muna

Ahead of the commencement of real exercise of the 2026 hajj, the Saudi Arabian Authorities have issued alerted extreme atmospheric condition with temperature projected above 48° celsius

The authorities overseeing the 2026 Hajj operations in Saudi Arabia, pilgrims are warned to be mindful of the heat condition especially in Muna and Muzdalifah where thousands of pilgrims are expected to converge to perform spiritual exercise for the next five days.

According to the ministry of Hajj, the weather forecasts indicated that temperatures could likely rise to 50° Celsius during midday if wind activity remains low.

The advisory called on all concerned agencies and Hajj missions to heighten preparedness measures and maximum caution amid the extreme weather conditions expected during the peak of the pilgrimage.

Subsequently the officials urged pilgrims to avoid direct exposure to sunlight and refrain from walking during peak daytime hours, warning that prolonged exposure to intense heat could pose serious health risks.

The statement further advised pilgrims to remain inside their camps as much as possible to reduce the risk of heat exhaustion and dehydration. The authorities also directed Hajj operators to provide awareness teams to intensify sensitization campaigns on preventive health measures to avoid needless exposure.

“The identified measure, includes use of umbrellas, increased intake of water and other fluids, and strict compliance with health and operational guidelines issued by relevant agencies”, the authorities said.

The health advisory comes as Nigeria pilgrims joined over 1.5 million of contingents across the globe begins movement to the tent city of Muna for the beginning of Hajj exercise.

About 50,000 Nigerians already settled in Makkah will begin the journey Sunday night after a successful conveyance of the entire pilgrims from Madinah.

The final batch of pilgrims, including those from Zamfara, Kano, Borno, and other were dispatched from Madinah, bringing to a close the Madinah visitation.