gale warning

American  

noun

1. U.S. Meteorology. a National Weather Service warning of sustained winds at sea having speeds in the range 34–47 knots (39–54 miles per hour, 17–24 meters per second).

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Etymology

Origin of gale warning

First recorded in 1915–20

Example Sentences

A gale warning was also in effect for inner coastal waters, with officials discouraging boating until conditions improved.

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 16, 2026

A gale warning is in effect midday Monday, with gusts expected around 35 to 45 mph from the southeast and shifting to westerly, according to Environment Canada.

From Seattle Times • Oct. 25, 2021

Authorities were continuing their search for 52-year-old Roger Dale Grissom of Hughesville, Md., whose boat sank during a gale warning.

From Washington Post • Nov. 20, 2016

A gale warning is in effect in northern New Jersey from 6 a.m.

From Washington Times • Dec. 24, 2014

Her red hair flapped like a gale warning.

From "Middlesex: A Novel" by Jeffrey Eugenides