®Free Verbal Reasoning GMAT

Rationale

Nearly all of the increase in precipitation in Verenia has occurred in the hottest and driest months of the year.

This statement helps to explain the discrepancy by suggesting that the increase in precipitation may not be contributing to flooding as it occurs during months when evaporation rates are high, potentially leading to less runoff and flooding. A) This option directly addresses the timing of precipitation, indicating that the majority falls during the hottest and driest months. This suggests that much of the rain may evaporate quickly rather than contributing to river flow, thus explaining why flooding hasn’t increased despite higher precipitation levels. B) While this statement discusses downstream irrigation, it doesn’t explain the lack of flooding in Verenia itself. Increased irrigation downstream could actually reduce the water flow into those areas, rather than clarifying the relationship between precipitation and flooding in Verenia. C) Although predicting a cessation of increased precipitation could imply future changes, it does not resolve the current discrepancy between rising precipitation levels and stagnant flooding occurrences. This option fails to address the existing situation directly. D) The fact that Verenia has few inhabitants and thus less impact from flooding does not address the underlying issue of why flooding has not increased with precipitation. It merely offers a perspective on the consequences of flooding rather than clarifying the relationship with precipitation. E) While highlighting the unsuitability of rivers for damming is relevant, it does not provide an explanation for the observed lack of flooding despite increased precipitation. This option fails to connect the two factors meaningfully. Conclusion The option stating that nearly all of the increase in precipitation in Verenia has occurred in the hottest and driest months effectively clarifies the paradox of rising water flow without a corresponding increase in flooding. It suggests that the timing and seasonal context of the precipitation are critical in understanding the rivers' behavior, indicating that evaporation may play a significant role in mitigating flood risks.