storm warning

American  

[stawrm wawr-ning] / ˈstɔrm ˌwɔr nɪŋ /

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.

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storm warning British  

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

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Etymology

Origin of storm warning

First recorded in 1865–70

Example Sentences

Snowfall is also expected to continue in the Sierra Nevada on Thursday, where up to 8 additional inches of snow are expected in the Tahoe Basin and a winter storm warning remains in effect until 10 p.m.

From Los Angeles Times

Snowfall is also expected to continue in the Sierra Nevada on Thursday, where up to 8 additional inches of snow are expected in the Tahoe Basin and a winter storm warning is remains in effect until 10 p.m.

From Los Angeles Times

Much of the area’s mountains are also under a winter storm warning, with heavy snow possible Tuesday evening through Thursday, according to the weather service.

From Los Angeles Times

Bangor remains under a winter storm warning until Tuesday, with heavy snowfall forecast.

From BBC

Across the state, a winter storm warning remains in effect for Sierra Nevada above 7,000 feet above sea level from Yosemite to the Lake Isabella area through Friday, with 12 inches of snow per day anticipated.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• forecast