tropical storm

American  

noun

Meteorology.

1. a tropical cyclone of less than hurricane force.

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tropical storm Scientific  

1. A tropical cyclone having sustained surface winds between 39 and 73 mi (63 and 118 km) per hour.

2. See Note at cyclone

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Etymology

Origin of tropical storm

First recorded in 1940–45

Compare meaning

How does tropical-storm compare to similar and commonly confused words? Explore the most common comparisons:

• tropical storm vs. hurricane
• tropical depression vs. tropical storm
• tropical cyclone vs. tropical storm

Example Sentences

But the flooding that hit Indonesia, Thailand and Malaysia was also exacerbated by a rare tropical storm that dumped heavy rain on Sumatra island in particular.

From Barron's

An exceptionally rare tropical storm, named Cyclone Senyar, caused catastrophic landslides and flooding in Indonesia, with homes swept away and thousands of buildings submerged.

From BBC

A tropical storm has exacerbated conditions, and the tolls in Indonesia and Thailand rank among the highest in floods in those countries in recent years.

From Barron's

Tropical storm Koto killed three people and left another missing as it approached Vietnam, authorities said Sunday, as strong winds and high seas buffeted vessels off the country's flood-hit central coast.

From Barron's

However, the vast majority of tropical storm and hurricane activity typically occurs during the August-October period, which is considered to be the peak.

From BBC

Related Words

• tropical cyclone