Windvane
A wind vane is an instrument that measures the direction from which the wind is blowing. They are sometimes called weathervanes and were a common sight on top of barns and churches in the past.
A wind vane is mounted on a shaft or spire that is elevated off the ground.
The wind catches the rudder blade and makes it rotate.
The narrow end of the vane points into the wind and tells you the direction the wind is coming from.
Modern wind vanes are technical and highly sensitive instruments. They have high accuracy at lower wind speeds and a low threshold to begin turning. This means that you can detect even the slightest change in wind direction. Today, they are made to be durable and able to withstand stormy conditions for a sustained time.
Data from wind vanes can be used to calculate average wind direction and fluctuations during specific periods. nowing the direction the wind is blowing is important for meteorologists. It provides information about storm systems and what you can expect soon. Wind direction readings can help indicate where a pressure center is located. Wind direction is important in predicting the direction of wildfire flames and smoke, or hazardous material spills. Mariners and those who operate sailboats also need to know wind direction information. The aviation industry relies on them in many ways. It is also important for those in the construction industry, especially when working on high-rise buildings that use cranes.