wow..here we go with winds...
The wind data from the tower is from the station (if they have one) which measures to 5m from ground, from wherever the AWOS or MET equipment is located.. Winds aloft are usually taken 2 times a day (unless the winds are too high to launch a balloon.)
There 'may' be an anemometer on the tower.
Winds from the Tower should be 'advisory' at best to use when setting final approach config., but given the nature of the airport measurement, may have little correlation to the runway end you are approaching.
in regards to sideslip, you are correct, the tube may be more exposed or shielded, depending on the direction of the wind, and the location of the tube...
Last edited by FlightPathOBN; 20th Jun 2013 at 02:02.