Based on the record rainfall of May 2012, what conclusion can be made about May 2011?

The conclusion that May 2011 likely had lesser rainfall is grounded in the context of comparing rainfall patterns year over year. The significant rainfall recorded in May 2012 may suggest a fluctuation in weather patterns, which can often indicate that years prior experienced different conditions.

While it is not definitive that May 2011 must have had lesser rainfall simply because May 2012 had a record amount, the statement can be interpreted to imply a probable variation that might have resulted in a distinctly lower amount of rainfall the previous year, especially if the pattern of record levels suggests a trend of increasing precipitation over time. Analyzing climate data often shows cycles and trends; thus, the rainfall in May 2011 could be inferred to be lesser than 2012 based on historical weather patterns.

Moreover, options discussing average rainfall or asserting statistical irrelevance do not align with the substantial evidence provided about the extreme conditions of May 2012, which suggests a relevant and comparative approach to understanding the weather in May 2011. The option stating that May 2011 was wetter than usual would contradict the conclusion drawn about the drastic change in 2012, thus making it less plausible.