What factors are likely to increase pesticide drift?

Pesticide drift occurs when pesticide particles move off the target area, which can lead to unintended exposure to non-target species and areas. Low humidity and high temperatures are significant factors that can increase the likelihood of drift.

When humidity is low, the evaporation rate of pesticides increases, producing smaller droplets that can be carried further by the wind. High temperatures contribute to this phenomenon by increasing the volatility of certain pesticide formulations, allowing them to vaporize more easily. The combination of these conditions can lead to a higher risk of drift as small aerosolized particles travel on air currents.

In contrast, high humidity and low temperatures tend to create heavier droplets and reduce evaporation, which minimizes drift risk. Rainy weather can wash away pesticides, reducing the likelihood of drift. Stable atmospheric conditions can also lead to temperature inversions that trap air pollutants closer to the ground, but they don't inherently cause drift like the conditions of low humidity and high temperatures do. Understanding these factors is crucial for minimizing pesticide drift during application.