(C) had collapsed Explanation: Past perfect for the earlier action (collapse) before another past action (arrived).

(A) as tall as Explanation: Equality comparison – "as + adj + as." 7. Word Order Q13. Only after the storm subsided ______ to assess the damage. (A) were they able (B) they were able (C) able they were (D) they able were

D (themselves – should be "itself" because "committee" is singular)