What factor can increase the risk of pesticide drift?

High temperatures during pesticide application can increase the risk of pesticide drift significantly. When temperatures are elevated, the volatility of many pesticide formulations can increase, causing them to evaporate more quickly. This volatilized material can then be carried away from the target area by wind or thermal currents, leading to unintended exposure of nearby plants, animals, or human populations.

Additionally, higher temperatures can cause spray droplets to evaporate before they reach the target, which can further contribute to drift as smaller particles are more easily carried away by the wind. It's important for applicators to consider weather conditions, including temperature, when planning pesticide applications to minimize the risk of drift and ensure that the pesticides are applied effectively and safely.