storm signal

noun

1. a visual signal, as a flag, giving advance notice of a heavy storm, used especially along coastal areas.
2. storm warning ( def 2 ).

Word History and Origins

Origin of storm signal¹

First recorded in 1860–65

Example Sentences

One man has a rheumatic joint which, when the wind is northeast, lifts the storm signal.

From Project Gutenberg

This fact is a storm signal whose significance we should sacredly heed.

From Project Gutenberg

When you start anything with me in short-hand it's bound to turn out a storm signal.'

From Project Gutenberg

The small ragged vein on Anthony's forehead was the storm signal for the family.

From Project Gutenberg

Snow was now beginning to fall in large flakes; a storm signal, and one they liked little.

From Project Gutenberg