RAIN FOR HAJJ

BBC:

Heavy rainstorms have hampered the start of the annual Muslim pilgrimage, the Hajj, in the Saudi city of Mecca.

The authorities have warned pilgrims to take care in the rain at the event, which usually attracts about two million Muslims from around the world.

Fatal stampedes have marred the pilgrimage in the past, and many of the visitors stay in tents.

A senior Saudi official has also told the BBC that fears over swine flu may keep some 40% of local pilgrims away.

RAIN IN ARABIA? DURING HAJJ?

IS SOMEONE SENDING A MESSAGE?