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The scale has five categories, increasing in intensity from 1 to 5. Initially, Saffir and Simpson created the scale based solely on wind speed. Later, Simpson added storm-surge levels. Low atmospheric pressure is also associated with hurricanes.
The Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale estimates potential property damage. While all hurricanes produce life-threatening winds, hurricanes rated Category 3 and higher are known as major hurricanes*.
The Saffir–Simpson hurricane wind scale (SSHWS) classifies hurricanes—which in the Western Hemisphere are tropical cyclones that exceed the intensities of tropical depressions and tropical storms—into five categories distinguished by the intensities of their sustained winds.
Hurricane categories can’t predict everything about a storm, but categories do give an indication of how a hurricane will affect people and property in its path. Here’s what you need to know ...
Category 5 hurricane. Category 5 hurricanes are the most devastating, with sustained winds of at least 157 mph. "A high percentage of framed homes will be destroyed, with total roof failure and ...
Category 1 hurricanes range from 74 to 95 mph and can bring very dangerous winds that can damage even sturdy houses. Category 1 is the weakest hurricane, and the storms strengthen up the scale from there. If a hurricane is Category 3 or higher, it is considered a major hurricane.
What are the categories of hurricanes and what do they mean? Here is how the scale breaks down, according to the National Hurricane Center, starting with a look at the most powerful: Category...
Updated May 2021 . The Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale is a 1 to 5 categorization based on the hurricane's intensity at the indicated time. The scale – originally developed by wind engineer Herb Saffir and meteorologist Bob Simpson – has been an excellent tool for alerting the public about the possible impacts of various intensity hurricanes1.
The historical examples provided in each of the categories correspond with the observed or estimated maximum wind speeds from the hurricane experienced at the location indicated. These do not necessarily correspond with the peak intensity reached by the system during its lifetime.
The Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale estimates potential property damage. While all hurricanes produce life-threatening winds, hurricanes rated Category 3 and higher are known as major hurricanes*.