Coming events cast their shadows before.
A series of strange incidents took place in quick [rapid] succession.
a sign of something about to happen
to degrade a thing which had previously developed
Be sure to put out the light before you go out.
Please be sure to turn off the light before you leave.
an affair or event that will or may take place in the future
look ahead and behind
There is no knowing what may happen next.
something that serves as a preceding event or introduces what follows
Don't make a scene in public.