Muslims worldwide gather at Mount Arafat for the climax of the annual Hajj pilgrimage, praying under searing desert temperatures near Mecca. Multiple reports say more than 1.5 million people attend, with one source placing the figure above 1.7 million. Worshippers begin arriving and praying from early morning, reciting Qur’anic verses on and around the rocky site known as Mount Arafat, believed to be where Prophet Muhammad delivered his last sermon. Reports describe the scale of the gathering and the continuing religious observance despite hot conditions. Temperature estimates vary slightly across outlets, ranging from around 40°C to above 44°C, but all describe extreme heat during the day’s rites. Saudi authorities and volunteers provide measures aimed at helping pilgrims cope, including water distribution and other aid such as parasols and food packages. One outlet also notes that additional heat-preparedness steps are in place after last year’s deadly conditions. Helicopters are mentioned by one report as overhead activity during the event.