Read the following passage and mark the letter A, B, C, or D on your answer sheet to indicate the correct word or phrase that best fits each of the numbered blanks.
Drought is a condition that occurs when average rainfall for a fertile area drops far below the normal ___(1)___ for a long period of time. In areas ___(2)___ are not irritated, the lack of rain causes farm crops to wither and die . Higher than normal temperatures usually accompany periods of drought . They add to the crop damage. Forest fires start easily during drought . The soil of a drought area becomes dry and crumbles. Often the rich topsoil is ___(3)___ away by the hot, dry winds . Streams, ponds, and wells often dry up during a drought, and animals suffer and may even die ___(4)___ the lack of water.