The term 'very hot and dry' can be described by two crossword solutions: 'SAHARAN' (7 letters) and 'TORRID' (6 letters). The Sahara is the world's largest hot desert, located in North Africa. It is characterized by extreme temperatures, with average highs of over 100°F during the day and lows of below freezing at night. TORRID is an adjective meaning 'intensely hot and dry, ' which is an apt description for the Sahara.