storm warning

[stawrm wawr-ning]

noun

1. 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.

2. 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.

3. 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.

storm warning

noun

1. a pattern of lights, flags, etc, displayed at certain ports as a warning to shipping of an approaching storm

2. an announcement on radio or television of an approaching storm

3. any warning of approaching danger or trouble

Word History and Origins

Origin of storm warning¹

First recorded in 1865–70

Example Sentences

A winter storm warning was in effect for the San Bernardino County and Riverside County mountains through Friday afternoon, including in Big Bear.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

Fire crews should soon receive assistance with the arrival of rain and possible snow as a winter storm warning is in effect in Mono County from 1 p.m.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

A tropical storm warning is in place for the Turks and Caicos Islands and the speed of the slow-moving hurricane is expected to increase in the coming days.

Read more on BBC

"Since we're operating farther away, it's not always possible to return quickly when there's a storm warning," he said.

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A winter storm warning is in effect until 5 p.m.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• forecast