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Hurricane Basics

The Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Scale: Rating a Storm's Strength

Hurricanes are rated on the Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Scale based on the storm's intensity. This 1 to 5 rating scale estimates potential property damage. Hurricanes reaching Category 3 and higher are considered major hurricanes because of potential for loss of life and damage, though Category 1 and 2 storms are still very dangerous and should not be taken lightly.

Note: The damage descriptions below pertain to the effects of wind only. Heavy rains can occur at any level. Heavy rains can cause river flooding and flash flooding anywhere in the state, regardless of storm intensity.

Click here for the jpg version of the Saffir-Simpson Hurrican Scale

Tropical Storm

Winds: 39-73 mph
Wind Effects: Scattered trees down, scattered power outages, some roads blocked due to downed trees and power lines.

For example, neighborhoods could lose power for several days.

Category 1

Winds of 74 to 95 mph
Winds Effects: Damage to mobile homes and some homes of frame construction. Numerous trees down and widespread power outages. Roads blocked due to downed trees and power lines. Loose outdoor items will become airborne projectiles.
For example, an area as large as a county could experience near total power loss.

Category 2

Winds of 96 to 110 mph
Wind Effects: Severe damage to the majority of mobile homes and homes of frame construction. Many trees down. Well-constructed homes will have damage to shingles, siding and gutters. Extensive damage to power lines and widespread power outages. Airborne debris could injure or kill.
Damage could extend well inland.
For example, multiple localities could experience near total loss of power and water from several days to weeks.

Category 3

Winds of 111 to 130 mph
Winds: 111-130 mph
Wind Effects: Nearly all mobile homes destroyed. Severe damage to most homes, including structural collapse. Airborne debris will injure or kill. Severe damage to most low-rise apartment buildings with partial roof and wall failure.
Damage could extend well inland.
For example, large portions of the affected area could experience total power and water loss for more than a week.

Category 4

Winds of 131 to 155 mph
Wind Effects: Catastrophic damage to residential structures. Most of the affected area will be uninhabitable for weeks or longer. Nearly all industrial buildings and low-rise apartment buildings severely damaged or destroyed. Nearly all trees and power poles downed.
Damage could extend well inland.
For example, large portions of the affected area will experience total power and water loss for weeks and possibly months.

Category 5

Winds greater than 155 mph
Wind Effects: Similar to Category 4.

The flooding and high winds associated with hurricanes may also disrupt the distribution of gasoline, kerosene, diesel fuel, fuel oils, propane and other petroleum products. This disruption could cause major problems for organizations and businesses that rely on such supplies. Additionally, such a disruption could affect backup power generation.