The Criterion for Combining Two Prayers During Rain

Q: What is the criterion for combining two prayers during rain, or in the case of rain?

A: If there is an excuse, it is permissible to combine the Dhuhr and Asr prayers, and the Maghrib and Isha prayers, for an excuse such as being sick, being a traveler, and so on. In the case of heavy rain, it is permissible to combine Dhuhr and Asr, just as Maghrib and Isha are combined, according to the most correct of the two opinions of the scholars. Some scholars prohibit combining Dhuhr and Asr in the town due to rain or the like, such as slippery conditions that cause hardship. The correct view is that it is permissible, just as combining Maghrib and Isha is permissible, if the rain or slippery conditions are severe enough to cause hardship. If one combines Dhuhr and Asr by advancing them, there is no harm, just as with Maghrib and Isha, whether one combines them at the beginning of the time or in the middle of the time. The important thing is that if there is something that makes it difficult for them, such as being in the mosque during heavy rain, and it is difficult for them to walk in the markets because of the mud and water, they should combine the prayers, and there is no harm. If they do not combine them, they have an excuse to pray in their homes, given the presence of rain in the markets and the presence of mud.