tropical storm watch
Definition
An official advisory issued by meteorological services indicating that tropical storm conditions (sustained winds of 39 to 73 mph) are possible within a specified area, typically within 48 hours.
A polite meteorologist's way of telling you that you should probably stop planning your backyard barbecue and start checking the integrity of your roof.
Examples
The weatherman issued a tropical storm watch, which is essentially nature's way of suggesting that moving your patio furniture inside might be a productive use of your afternoon.
My house is currently under a tropical storm watch, so I am treating the situation with the appropriate level of panic by buying enough canned beans to last through the next ice age.
A tropical storm watch guarantees that your weekend plans for a beach bonfire will be replaced by quality time with a weather app and the rattling sound of your window panes.