Definition

Noun: A visual signal, such as a flag, light, or sound, displayed or broadcast to warn that a storm, especially one of significant intensity, is approaching a specific area.

Usage

• A storm signal is raised by meteorological authorities or port officials to alert the public, sailors, and aircraft to take immediate precautions.
• The system often uses a series of shapes, colors, or flags to indicate the type and severity of the approaching storm.

Examples

• "The coast guard hoisted the storm signal, prompting all small boats to return to harbor immediately."
• "Residents knew to secure their homes when they saw the hurricane storm signal displayed on the official weather station."
• "Before modern radar, sailors relied heavily on visual storm signals to anticipate dangerous weather at sea."

Advanced Usage

• "To hoist/raise a storm signal": The act of officially displaying the warning.
  • The meteorologists decided to hoist the storm signal as the cyclone changed course.
• "Storm signal is in effect": A phrase indicating that the warning is currently active and precautions should be taken.
  • A typhoon storm signal is in effect for the entire eastern coastline.

Variants and Related Words

• Storm warning (n): A more general term for an official alert about an incoming storm, which can be communicated via various means, including storm signals, radio, or digital alerts.
• Gale warning (n): A specific type of storm signal or warning for very strong winds.
• Signal flag (n): A flag used as a component in a signaling system, such as for maritime storm signals.

Synonyms

• Storm warning
• Gale warning (specific type)
• Tempest signal (archaic/literary)
• Warning signal

Related Phrases

• To heed a storm signal: To pay attention to and act upon the warning.
  • It is crucial for fishermen to heed the storm signal.
• Under a storm signal: The condition of being in an area for which a warning has been issued.
  • The island was under a storm signal for 24 hours.

Noun

1. a signal announcing the approach of a storm (particularly a storm of marked violence)