extreme event

American  

[ik-streem i-vent] / ɪkˈstrim ɪˈvɛnt /

noun

Meteorology, Climatology.

1. an episode of weather, climate, or environmental conditions that is severe and unexpected or abnormal for the location or season.

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Etymology

Origin of extreme event

First recorded in 1965–70

Example Sentences

"And then such an extreme event takes place, and in a way, liberates everything -- all the emotions, all the ideas and the passions, all the terrible things."

From Barron's • Apr. 3, 2026

While cracks may not show on an ordinary weather day, “the problem is when there is an extreme event or a disaster or an emergency,” he said.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 18, 2025

Ordinary stars produce lighter elements, but the ones heavier than iron are thought to require the explosive conditions of a supernova or some other extreme event.

From Science Magazine • Apr. 12, 2024

"In future, we could see space weather forecasting being used to make decisions about limiting railway operations if an extreme event is expected, just as meteorological forecasts are used currently," he said.

From BBC • Dec. 11, 2023

Hence, no instructions are given you for the extreme event of the troops being in absolute need of such supplies, and their being with-held by the inhabitants.

From The Great Salt Lake Trail by Inman, Henry