· 1 min read
illuminem summarizes for you the essential news of the day. Read the full piece on The Guardian or enjoy below:
🗞️ Driving the news: At least 1,300 Hajj pilgrims died due to extreme heat in Saudi Arabia, with temperatures reaching 51.8°C
• Most of the deceased were unauthorized pilgrims without official permits
🔭 The context: Unauthorized pilgrims, who lacked access to adequate shelter and cooling facilities, walked long distances under direct sunlight
• The Saudi government had not provided a public death toll until recently, with a senior official previously citing 577 deaths during the peak days of the pilgrimage
🌍 Why it matters for the planet: The deaths highlight the growing risks posed by climate change, particularly for vulnerable populations during large gatherings
• Addressing extreme heat conditions is crucial to prevent future tragedies
⏭️ What's next: Saudi Arabia needs to enhance public awareness and implement effective measures to protect pilgrims from extreme heat
• The issue of unauthorized pilgrims and their safety must also be addressed to prevent further casualties
💬 One quote: "May Allah forgive and have mercy on the deceased. Our heartfelt condolences go to their families," said Saudi Health Minister Fahd al-Jalajel
📈 One stat: 83% of the 1,301 reported deaths were unauthorized pilgrims
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