Does the hadith about Allah withholding rain before the appearance of the Dajjal have a source, and what does it mean?

Summary

The hadith has a basis, as it is narrated by Ibn Majah from Abu Umamah and graded sahih by al-Albani. It describes three years of hardship before the Dajjal appears, in which rain and plant growth are withheld in stages until severe famine strikes. During that time, tahlil, takbir and tahmid sustain people in place of food. The ruling also lists ways to face the Dajjal's trial, such as memorising ten opening verses of surah al-Kahf, making supplication, seeking forgiveness and remembering Allah.

Written in our own words from the original fatwa — check the source before acting on it.