Albert Barnes Commentary Proverbs 1:27

"When your fear cometh as a storm, And your calamity cometh on as a whirlwind; When distress and anguish come upon you." — Proverbs 1:27 (ASV)

Desolation — more accurately, 'tempest'. The rapid gathering of the clouds, the rushing of the mighty winds, are the most fitting symbols of the suddenness with which God's judgment will ultimately fall on those who do not expect it. Compare Matthew 24:29 and following; Luke 17:24.