Inversion Layer Holds Methyl Bromide Down Over Picton
The possibility of a cold inversion layer causing Methyl Bromide, vented during fumigation, to remain at a low level and drift over Picton has long been disputed by supporters of methyl bromide use in Shakespear Bay.
Below is proof that such inversion layers do indeed form in the area in the summer, and that they do hold clouds and gases down allowing them to drift over Picton.
I’ll hand you over to Pete…
Kia Ora,Yesterday sat 7th of Feb, I received a call from a lady who said that when driving from Shakespear bay to Picton the air coming from their air vents became very moist .They rang because they suspected that Zindia might have secretly fumigated under tarps and they could of been exposed to methyl bromide.I leapt into the truck and roared down the road , the first thing I noticed while driving down Waikawa Rd was a large cloud bank in Picton Harbour at very low level.I drove to the top of the Domain and could see that there was no fumigation , but was surprised to see that a brisk Nor west wind was blowing a cloud bank from Double Cove, across the Grove Arm and was thick above Shakespear Bay and the Picton community.This is a classic example of the cold inversion layer, many people think that it is a myth, like the NMHDept, and the MDC. others believe it only occurs during the winter months.Well here is proof that it also occurs during the summer, yesterday was one of the hottest days of the year.Kind regards.Pete & Takutai