NCM Deploys Advanced Weather Monitoring for Hajj Safety

Mina, June 4 — As the Hajj season progresses, the National Center for Meteorology (NCM) has announced the full deployment of its advanced weather monitoring systems in Mina, providing critical meteorological support to ensure the safety and comfort of pilgrims during the sacred rituals—particularly ahead of the Day of Tarwiyah.

Operating as part of an integrated safety framework, NCM is delivering real-time weather data to relevant authorities to aid in planning and emergency preparedness. The center utilizes a sophisticated suite of technologies, including weather radars, satellite imagery, and the Saudi numerical weather model, offering complete atmospheric coverage across Makkah, the holy sites, Madinah, and all major connecting ports, airports, and roads.

To enhance on-ground monitoring, NCM has deployed 16 automated weather stations and two manned stations in Mina and Arafat, producing up to 1,920 hourly weather bulletins throughout the Hajj season. This effort is supported by a mobile monitoring center and a 24/7 integrated operations room, ensuring around-the-clock surveillance and rapid response to emerging weather conditions.

Specifically for the Day of Tarwiyah, NCM is issuing 24 hourly METAR reports and eight SYNOP bulletins, in addition to special weather updates and automated early warnings for any signs of severe weather phenomena.

In parallel, the center is running an extensive public awareness campaign through its Media Production and Awareness Center in Mina, broadcasting safety messages and weather bulletins in five languages across 14 media and digital platforms. Leveraging artificial intelligence and advanced imaging tools, NCM aims to keep pilgrims informed and prepared at all times.

For the Day of Tarwiyah, NCM forecasts maximum temperatures of 40°C and minimums of 29°C, with wind speeds reaching up to 65 km/h, humidity levels of 65%, and partly cloudy skies occasionally affected by dust.

This comprehensive meteorological operation underscores Saudi Arabia’s commitment to leveraging technology and expertise to safeguard millions of pilgrims undertaking one of Islam’s most sacred journeys.