In terms of safety during aerial pesticide application, what is a critical factor to monitor?

Monitoring weather conditions is crucial during aerial pesticide applications due to the significant impact weather can have on both application effectiveness and safety. Factors like wind speed, temperature, humidity, and precipitation play a pivotal role in determining how pesticides disperse and behave in the environment. For instance, high wind can cause drift, leading to unintended pesticide exposure to non-target areas or organisms, while rain can wash away applied chemicals before they have time to work effectively. By staying informed about current and forecasted weather conditions, operators can make informed decisions, ensuring they apply pesticides safely and in compliance with regulations.