Mecca deploys 18 weather monitoring stations to safeguard pilgrims at holy sites

Dubai: Saudi Arabia’s National Centre of Meteorology (NCM) has achieved comprehensive atmospheric coverage of the holy sites during this year’s Hajj season, intensifying both field and technical operations to enhance the accuracy of weather forecasts.

As part of its operational readiness strategy, the NCM deployed 16 automated monitoring stations across Mecca and the holy sites, in addition to two manned observatories in Mina and Arafat.

This extensive monitoring network enabled the issuance of 1,920 hourly weather bulletins, supported by a mobile monitoring centre that strengthened real-time observation capabilities.

In Medina, the NCM activated six automated stations and operated a manned observatory at Medina airport.

Regional coverage was further bolstered by a dedicated weather radar in Medina, complemented by three auxiliary radars in Jeddah, Taif, and Yanbu, expanding geographic data collection and significantly improving forecast precision.

 The NCM also launched a specialised media and communications centre in Mina to ensure public awareness and support safety efforts.

The facility produces multilingual weather updates and safety messages, targeting both pilgrims and operational teams. These communications are powered by artificial intelligence and advanced imaging technologies, ensuring timely, accessible, and impactful dissemination of critical weather information.