Which word best describes an immediate or impending event?

The word "imminent" is the best choice to describe an immediate or impending event because it specifically conveys the sense that something is about to happen very soon. When an event is characterized as imminent, it suggests an urgency and closeness in time, indicating that it can occur at any moment. This term is commonly used in various contexts, such as weather forecasts ("imminent storm") or safety warnings ("imminent danger"), to alert individuals to the immediacy of a situation that requires attention or action.

In contrast, "incident" refers to an occurrence or event but does not imply anything about its timing or proximity. "Implicated" suggests involvement or association with something, often used in legal or moral contexts and does not relate to time. "Indicator" means something that serves as a sign or signal but lacks any connotation of immediacy. Thus, "imminent" accurately captures the essence of something that is on the verge of occurring.