Makkah (Haram) was recently struck by a bout of intense rainfall, leading to an emergency situation that left an indelible mark on the city.
Videos capturing the clock tower being illuminated by lightning strikes and devoted pilgrims standing resiliently outside the Haram, enduring the tempestuous winds, have emerged as a testament to the challenging circumstances.
In a recent interview with the British news agency BBC, a witness named Saima Jabbar recounted the harrowing experience she and others went through during the storm. Jabbar expressed, “We’ve encountered numerous storms throughout our lives, but nothing compares to this one. Even those who have been here for previous storms agree that this was unlike any other.”
The ferocity of the storm was such that individuals standing on the ground found themselves swaying amidst the force of the elements. Rain poured in from all directions, creating a scene of unprecedented intensity.
Saima further shared, “Amidst the heavy downpour and the raging storm, our family sought solace by huddling close to the Kaaba. We prayed and cried, deeply moved by the situation. And the sight that greeted us after the rain was simply transformative.”
It’s important to highlight that just two days prior, other regions, including Makkah, were lashed by heavy rain accompanied by thunder. This deluge resulted in flooding across many roads and posed challenges for the pilgrims who were in Makkah for Umrah. The clock tower, upon which the spectacular lightning show unfolded, became an emblematic image of the event.
In the face of nature’s fury, the resilience of both the iconic clock tower and the pilgrims who braved the elements to seek solace near the Haram is a testament to the unyielding spirit of devotion.