storm warning
Americannoun
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a prominently displayed object, as a flag or lantern, or clearly audible sound, as from a horn or siren, that signals the expected arrival of a storm.
As we speak, the island’s harbor masters are calling for storm warnings to be hoisted up every available flagpole.
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Meteorology. a notification by the National Weather Service of anticipated or occurring winds with sustained speeds of 48 knots (55 miles per hour, 25 meters per second) to 63 knots (73 miles per hour, 32 meters per second), or frequent gusts within that range, and not directly associated with a tropical cyclone.
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any sign or indication of approaching trouble, adversity, unrest, etc..
The arrival of troops at the border was an ominous storm warning.
I could easily interpret that look on Mom’s face as a storm warning for me and my brother.
noun
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a pattern of lights, flags, etc, displayed at certain ports as a warning to shipping of an approaching storm
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an announcement on radio or television of an approaching storm
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any warning of approaching danger or trouble
Etymology
Origin of storm warning
First recorded in 1865–70
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
A tropical storm warning was also issued for the island of Oahu, where Honolulu is located.
From Barron's ● Sep. 7, 2026
A hurricane warning was in effect for Hawaii County, which covers the Big Island, and a tropical storm warning held for the islands of Maui, Molokai and Kahoolawe to its northwest.
From Barron's ● Aug. 15, 2026
A winter storm warning was in effect for the San Bernardino County and Riverside County mountains through Friday afternoon, including in Big Bear.
From Los Angeles Times ● Nov. 21, 2025
"Since we're operating farther away, it's not always possible to return quickly when there's a storm warning," he said.
From BBC ● Oct. 23, 2025
At two o'clock in the afternoon the radio operator received a storm warning for a nor'wester.
From The Boy With the U. S. Life-Savers by Francis Rolt-Wheeler
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