Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Scale

The Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Scale is a 1-5 rating based on a hurricane's present intensity. It is used to give an estimate of the potential property damage expected along a coast from a hurricane's landfall.

The National Hurricane Center removed criteria about storm surge and flooding from the scale in 2010. Geography causes great variations in storm surges produced by hurricanes of the same intensity.

Category 1:

• Winds: 74-95 mph
• Very dangerous winds will produce some damage.

Category 2:

• Winds: 96-110 mph
• Extremely dangerous winds will cause extensive damage.

Category 3:

• Winds: 111-130 mph
• Devastating damage will occur.

Category 4:

• Winds: 131-155 mph
• Catastrophic damage will occur.

Category 5:

• Winds: greater than 155 mph
• Catastrophic damage will occur.
• Since 1925, only three have hit the U.S: Camille in 1969, Andrew in 1992 and Wilma in 2005.