To categorize a hurricane’s strength, meteorologists use the Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale (SSHWS) which assigns a 1 to 5 rating based on the hurricane’s sustained wind speed.
Here’s a breakdown of the categories:
Category 1 – sustained winds of 74-95 mph.Very dangerous winds will produce some damage.
Damage to the roof, shingles, vinyl siding and gutters of well-framed homes is possible. Large branches of trees could snap off and poorly rooted or shallowly rooted trees may fall. Extensive damage to power lines and poles could result in power outages lasting multiple days.
Category 2 – sustained winds of 96-110 mph.Extremely dangerous winds will cause extensive damage.
Major damage to the roof and siding of well-framed homes is possible. Many downed trees could be blocking roadways. Near-total power loss is expected, potentially lasting several days to weeks.
Category 3 – sustained winds of 111-129 mph.Devastating damage will occur.
Well-built homes with solid framing will be majorly damaged, including the removal of roof decking and gable ends. Many trees will be down, blocking many roadways. Electricity and water will be unavailable for several days to weeks.
Category 4 – sustained winds of 130-156 mph.Catastrophic damage will occur.
Loss of roof structure and/or some exterior walls to well-built homes will be probable. Most trees will be down, along with power poles. These fallen trees and power poles will block roadways, isolating residential areas. Power outages will last weeks to months. Most of the affected area will be uninhabitable for weeks or months.
Category 5 – sustained winds of 157 mph or higher.Catastrophic damage will occur.
Many well-built homes will be destroyed. Fallen trees and power poles will block roadways, isolating residential areas. Power outages will last weeks to months. Most of the affected area will be uninhabitable for weeks or months.
