At least 14 Jordanian citizens have died during the Hajj pilgrimage in Saudi Arabia due to intense heat. Jordan’s foreign ministry said 14 of its nationals had died after suffering sunstroke due to the extreme heat wave and a further 17 had been reported missing. The Iranian Red Crescent confirmed that five Iranian pilgrims had also lost their lives, but did not specify how they died. Jordanian officials said searches were continuing for those missing. In a statement, the Jordanian foreign ministry said, it was coordinating with the Saudi authorities on procedures to bury or transport the bodies of the deceased, according to the wishes of their families.

Hajj is one of the largest mass gatherings in the world.

According to Saudi officials, more than 1.8 million pilgrims are taking part this year. But it has a history of deadly catastrophes, including stampedes and tent fires. But most years, the main challenge comes from intense heat. Temperatures exceeded 46C (114.8F) this week, making many of the rituals that are performed outdoors and on foot challenging especially for the elderly.

The pilgrimage will end on Wednesday. Saudi officials say as part of heat mitigation measures, they have set up many climate-controlled areas. They distribute water and offer advice to pilgrims on how to protect themselves from the sun. The Saudi health ministry also issued an advisory, asking pilgrims to stay hydrated and avoid being outdoors during the hottest hours.