A deadly Hajj season: What happened in Mecca this year
This year's Hajj pilgrimage to Mecca turned tragic when more than 1,300 died in a heat wave. But it wasn't just about stifling weather, as some tour companies took advantage of lax visa requirements, which led to overcrowding.
![A deadly Hajj season: What happened in Mecca this year](https://i.cbc.ca/1.7249935.1719595659!/fileImage/httpImage/image.jpg_gen/derivatives/16x9_620/2157805117.jpg)
![Medical team members evacuate a Muslim pilgrim, affected by the soarching heat, at the base of Mount Arafat, also known as Jabal al-Rahma or Mount of Mercy, during the annual hajj pilgrimage on June 15, 2024. Medical team members evacuate a Muslim pilgrim, affected by the soarching heat, at the base of Mount Arafat, also known as Jabal al-Rahma or Mount of Mercy, during the annual hajj pilgrimage on June 15, 2024.](https://i.cbc.ca/1.7249935.1719595659!/fileImage/httpImage/image.jpg_gen/derivatives/16x9_620/2157805117.jpg)
This year's Hajj pilgrimage to Mecca turned tragic when more than 1,300 died in a heat wave. But it wasn't just about stifling weather, as some tour companies took advantage of lax visa requirements, which led to overcrowding.