What weather condition is indicated to cause considerable drift during pesticide application?

Wind speeds greater than 10 mph are important to consider during pesticide application because strong winds can significantly increase the likelihood of pesticide drift. Drift occurs when airborne particles of pesticide, either liquid droplets or dust, move from the target area to unintended locations, potentially causing damage to non-target plants, wildlife, and water sources.

High wind speeds create turbulence that can lift these particles higher into the atmosphere, making them more susceptible to being carried away from the application site. Because pesticides are often applied as fine droplets, they can easily be caught in the wind and transported over long distances, resulting in unintended exposure to sensitive areas.

While other factors such as temperature inversions, humidity, and air pressure can influence pesticide behavior, the immediate effect of wind speed on drift potential is critical, especially at speeds above 10 mph. Understanding this relationship allows applicators to make informed decisions about when and how to apply pesticides safely and effectively.