The Jargon File (version 4.4.7, 29 Dec 2003):

broadcast storm
 n.

    [common] An incorrect packet broadcast on a network that causes most hosts
    to respond all at once, typically with wrong answers that start the process
    over again. See network meltdown; compare mail storm.


The Free On-line Dictionary of Computing (30 December 2018):

broadcast storm
network storm
storm

    A broadcast on a network that causes multiple
   hosts to respond by broadcasting themselves, causing the
   storm to grow exponentially in severity.

   See network meltdown.

   [Jargon File]

   (1995-02-07)