Is drift more or less likely during a temperature inversion?

During a temperature inversion, drift is more likely to occur due to specific atmospheric conditions. A temperature inversion happens when cooler air is trapped near the ground by a layer of warmer air above it. This stable atmospheric condition can stagnate the air and prevent the mixing that typically disperses particles or droplets from pesticides or other applications.

When pesticide application occurs under these circumstances, the reduced air movement can cause aerosols and fine particles to remain suspended in the cooler air close to the ground. As a result, they can be carried over longer distances by any slight breeze or thermal currents that penetrate the inversion layer. This increases the risk of drift, meaning that the chemical substances applied may unintentionally affect non-target areas, such as neighboring fields, gardens, or even populated areas.

Understanding this relationship between temperature inversions and drift is crucial for applicators, as it highlights the importance of selecting appropriate weather conditions for pesticide applications to minimize environmental impact and ensure safety.