Saudi authorities have warned Hajj pilgrims to prepare for dust storms and extreme heat during the annual pilgrimage

Saudi Arabia’s National Center for Meteorology has warned of dust-laden winds and extreme daytime heat across several regions on Friday as hundreds of thousands of pilgrims continue arriving for the annual Hajj pilgrimage.

The center said surface winds carrying dust and sand are likely to affect parts of Najran, Riyadh, the Eastern Province, the Northern Borders region, Al-Jouf and Tabuk.

It also forecast possible thunderstorms and rainfall in parts of the highlands of Jazan, Asir, Al-Baha and Makkah.

According to the NCM, weather conditions along the roads connecting Madinah, Makkah and the holy sites are expected to remain stable but very hot during the daytime, as large numbers of pilgrims travel ahead of Hajj rituals set to begin on May 25.

Temperatures in Makkah could climb to 47 degrees Celsius, while Madinah is expected to see highs of 44 degrees Celsius, with humidity levels reaching up to 40 percent and dust-raising winds sweeping through open areas.

The center advised pilgrims and travelers to prepare their vehicles before travelling, follow safety instructions and drink plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration, the Saudi Press Agency reported earlier.

Around 1.6 million pilgrims are expected to gather in Makkah for this year’s Hajj, placing heightened attention on weather and safety measures during one of the world’s largest annual religious events.

Although the Hajj rituals take place in Makkah and the surrounding holy sites, many pilgrims also visit Madinah — Islam’s second-holiest city — either before or after completing the pilgrimage.

While visiting Madinah is not a mandatory part of Hajj, the city holds immense spiritual and historical importance for Muslims, prompting most pilgrims to spend several days there during their journey.