The Hajj season begins with sweltering weather, with temperatures approaching the mid-forties in Mecca and Medina.

Arab Weather - Sinan Khalaf - The latest weather updates from the Arab Weather Regional Center indicate that the Makkah and Madinah regions will witness high temperatures on the first day of Dhu al-Hijjah, which may increase the feeling of heat stress, especially during the afternoon and evening hours.

Temperatures approaching the mid-forties Celsius on the first day of Dhu al-Hijjah.

In detail, the latest numerical model outputs indicate that the Holy Capital, Makkah Al-Mukarramah , will witness a further rise in temperatures on Wednesday, with temperatures expected to reach around 44 degrees Celsius during the afternoon. This will be a sunny and completely stable atmosphere, with moderate northwesterly winds active in the afternoon hours, causing local dust storms.

In Medina, high temperatures are expected to reach around 43°C on Wednesday , amid generally hot weather with the possibility of scattered clouds. Winds will be westerly, picking up in the afternoon, which could heighten the sensation of heat and stir up dust and sand locally.

At night: Lighter temperatures in the hours, with lows reaching the late twenties.

Despite the high temperatures during the day, the weather remains warm at night, with minimum temperatures ranging between 27 and 30 degrees Celsius in Makkah and Madinah, while the atmosphere remains relatively dry and calm overall.

Arab Weather recommends that pilgrims, Umrah performers, and visitors avoid direct exposure to the sun during the midday hours, drink plenty of fluids and water to replenish lost moisture through sweating, use umbrellas when traveling, and adhere to health guidelines issued by relevant authorities, especially given the high population density in the region at the start of this blessed season.