Leper: Leprosy symbolizes the defilement of sin which results in separation from God and the community. The leper in the wilds of the wasteland is a symbol of the uncivilized, primitive, and hostile world in which the men are venturing. Such a man is indeed an ominous sign.
Storm: The storm is a symbol of the fantastic power of nature and of how Lidenbrock cannot control natural events, even if he wishes to do so.
