Search for missing hajj pilgrims in Mecca after hundreds die in 51C heat
The Guardian|June 20, 2024
Friends and family of missing hajj pilgrims searched hospitals and pleaded online for news, fearing the worst after hundreds died during the annual rites in Saudi Arabia.
Search for missing hajj pilgrims in Mecca after hundreds die in 51C heat

Arab diplomats told Agence France-Presse on Tuesday that at least 550 pilgrims had died this year, the majority due to heat-related illnesses after temperatures reached. 51.8C (125F) in Mecca.

The number of people reported dead was 645, according to an AFP tally figures released by various countries. About 1.8 million people attended the pilgrimage.

Mabrouka bint Salem Shushana, from Tunisia and in her early 70s, had been missing since the climax of the pilgrimage on Saturday at Mount Arafat, her husband, Mohammed, told AFP yesterday.

Because she was unregistered and did not have an official hajj permit, she was unable to access the air-conditioned facilities that allow pilgrims to cool off after hours of outdoor prayers, Mohammed said. "She was tired. She was feeling so hot, and had no place to sleep. I looked for her in all the hospitals."

Facebook and other social media networks have been flooded with pictures of the missing and requests for information.

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