Which of the following is NOT a method of assessing wind speed and direction?

Power line inspection is not typically a method used for assessing wind speed and direction. The other options directly relate to observable phenomena that provide insights into wind conditions.

Aircraft drift, for instance, involves noting the movement of an aircraft relative to its intended flight path, allowing pilots to determine wind direction and speed based on the rate of drift off course. Wave patterns are closely related to wind speed and direction, as they are influenced by the wind over water surfaces, indicating how strong the wind has been and its direction. Drifting spray occurs in marine environments where wind can create spray from the water surface, and the direction of the spray can also indicate prevailing wind conditions.

In contrast, inspecting power lines typically involves checking for damage or wear caused by environmental factors, but it does not provide reliable information on wind speed and direction. Therefore, while power line inspection might offer insights into the aftermath of wind events, it does not serve as a method for directly assessing wind characteristics.