Hajj, one of the five pillars of Islam, is an annual pilgrimage to Mecca that every Muslim must undertake at least once in their lifetime if they are physically and financially able. Interestingly, the timing of Hajj rotates through the different seasons every 34 Hijri years. This means that over this period, pilgrims will experience varying temperatures, from the cool winters to the hot summers of Makkah. In this article, we’ll explore this cycle and what it means for those planning to perform Hajj in the coming years.
The Hajj Temperature Cycle
According to Prof. Dr. Abdullah Al-Misnad, a former climate professor and the Deputy President of the Saudi Weather and Climate Society, the Hajj season moves through the four seasons every 34 Hijri years. This cyclical pattern results in pilgrims experiencing a range of temperatures depending on when they perform their pilgrimage.
Here’s a breakdown of the Hajj temperature cycle over the 34 Hijri years:
Year (Hijri) | Year (Gregorian) | Season | Average Temperature (°C) |
---|---|---|---|
1441 | 2020 | Summer | 44°C |
1442 | 2021 | Summer | 44°C |
1443 | 2022 | Summer | 44°C |
1444 | 2023 | Summer | 44°C |
1445 | 2024 | Spring | 44°C |
1446 | 2025 | Spring | 44°C |
1447 | 2026 | Spring | 44°C |
1448 | 2027 | Spring | 43°C |
1449 | 2028 | Spring | 42°C |
1450 | 2029 | Spring | 41°C |
1451 | 2030 | Spring | 40°C |
1452 | 2031 | Spring | 39°C |
1453 | 2032 | Spring | 37°C |
1454 | 2033 | Winter | 36°C |
1455 | 2034 | Winter | 35°C |
1456 | 2035 | Winter | 34°C |
1457 | 2036 | Winter | 33°C |
1458 | 2037 | Winter | 32°C |
1459 | 2038 | Winter | 32°C |
1460 | 2038 | Winter | 32°C |
1461 | 2039 | Winter | 32°C |
1462 | 2040 | Autumn | 33°C |
1463 | 2041 | Autumn | 35°C |
1464 | 2042 | Autumn | 37°C |
1465 | 2043 | Autumn | 38°C |
1466 | 2044 | Autumn | 39°C |
1467 | 2045 | Autumn | 41°C |
1468 | 2046 | Autumn | 41°C |
1469 | 2047 | Autumn | 42°C |
1470 | 2048 | Summer | 43°C |
1471 | 2049 | Summer | 43°C |
1472 | 2050 | Summer | 44°C |
1473 | 2051 | Summer | 44°C |
1474 | 2052 | Summer | 44°C |
What This Means for Pilgrims
This cycle of temperature changes has significant implications for pilgrims. Those who perform Hajj in the coming years may need to prepare for varying weather co
nditions:
- Spring (2024-2032): These years will also have very high temperatures, ranging from 37°C to 44°C. Although still hot, spring temperatures are slightly lower than those in summer, providing marginally more comfortable conditions for pilgrims.
- Winter (2033-2039): Pilgrims performing Hajj during these years will experience the coolest temperatures, with averages ranging from 36°C down to 32°C. Winter Hajj is ideal for those who prefer a more comfortable and cooler climate.
- Autumn (2040-2047): With temperatures varying between 33°C and 42°C, autumn provides a transition period between the extremes of summer and winter. This period offers a mix of moderate to warm weather conditions.
- Summer (2048-2052): These years will experience the hottest temperatures, with averages reaching up to 44°C. Pilgrims should be prepared for intense heat and ensure they are well-hydrated and protected from the sun.
Conclusion
Understanding the Hajj temperature cycle can help future pilgrims plan their journey more effectively. Whether you prefer the cooler climate of winter or are prepared for the intense heat of summer, knowing these temperature trends will aid in better preparation and a more comfortable pilgrimage experience.
References
- Image and data sourced from Prof. Dr. Abdullah Al-Misnad’s infographic on the Hajj temperature cycle.