In recent years, the ______ dry heat had led to a series of natural disasters.

One of the greatest benefits of Internet friendships is that they are based on common interests, ________ appearance, age or popularity.

---Do you really want to go out? ---It may rain．________ I shall go out; I don’t mind the rain.

 Jim went to answer the phone. _________ , Harry started to prepare lunch.

— Look! Black clouds are gathering.— Yes. A heavy rain is ______  to come.