Syrian refugees facing the harshest winter in 100 years

The rain started as a drizzle and then fell in sheets, filling the patchwork shelter of Abdul and his wife, Nasra, with the loud clamour of raindrops pelting their canvas roof.

The couple sit beside each other on a well-worn mat, expressionless. Their only belongings — a handful of pots, dishes, pillows, and blankets — are stacked neatly in plastic crates atop concrete blocks to keep them dry as water trickles into their tent.

His 80 years etched into the deep contours of his face and his sky-blue eyes dimmed with sadness, Abdul raises his voice to be heard over the clatter of rain and says, “Last night, we were wet and cold. All we have is blankets, nothing else, to stay warm.”