A hurricane is a type of tropical system that forms either in the Atlantic or Pacific ocean, on either side of North America. These storms can range in size from small tropical wind storms to massive hurricanes. There are three steps to categorizing a storm: formation, track and strength. But how are hurricanes categorized?
Threats from hurricanes range from inland flooding to storm surge and tornadoes to extreme wind.
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The five categories of a hurricane | The Saffir-Simpson Wind Scale up to hurricane category 5
The Saffir-Simpson Wind Scale is a 1-5 scale used to measure the intensity of hurricanes. The higher the number, the stronger the wind is immediately around the hurricane's eye.
NOAA notes the scale does not take into account other potentially deadly factors such as storm surge, rainfall, flooding and tornadoes.
There are five categories of hurricanes that make up the Saffir-Simpson Wind Scale. They are Category 1, Category 2, Category 3, Category 4 and Category 5.
The larger the storm, the wider its wind field and the greater the potential for damage. A hurricane's wind field also affects its storm surge. The higher the winds, the higher the surge.
Category 1 hurricanes: Winds 74-95 mph, Storm surge 4-5 ft
Category 1 hurricanes are the most common type of hurricane. They are typically small, with winds of 74-95 mph.
Category 1 hurricanes can still be dangerous, however.
The most common damage is to roofs, shingles, vinyl siding and gutters. Branches can snap off trees, and trees with shallow roots, or those in already wet soil, could topple. Power outages are possible if high winds or blowing branches damage power lines.
Make sure you have a plan in place in case of a storm, and stock up on supplies like food, water and flashlights.
Category 2 hurricanes: Winds 96-110 mph, Storm surge 6-8 ft
Category 2 hurricanes are typically more intense than Category 1 storms, but not as severe as Category 3 hurricanes. These storms can cause significant damage, particularly if they make landfall. Category 2 hurricanes are typically those that have wind speeds between 96-110 mph. These storms can cause extensive damage to coastal areas and some inland flooding.
Category 2 hurricanes often result in roof damage, power outages and downed trees.
Category 3 hurricanes: Winds 111-129 mph, Storm surge 9-12 ft
Category 3 hurricanes are considered major storms. Winds can reach up to 129 mph, and they can cause significant damage to coastal areas. High waves and storm surge often accompany these storms. Category 3 hurricanes are capable of causing extensive damage, even to sturdy structures. In addition, they often produce flooding rains that can further damage property and endanger lives.
If you live in an area that could be affected by a major storm, make sure you have a plan in place and are prepared for the worst.
Category 4 hurricanes: Winds 130-156 mph, Storm surge 13-18 ft
Category 4 hurricanes are defined as major storms with 130-156 mph winds. These storms can cause extensive damage, particularly if they make landfall. Roofs can blow off and exterior walls be blown in.
Damage to trees and power outages are often widespread along the path of a Category 4 hurricane, leaving roads impassible and power out for days.
In the Atlantic, there have been a total of 144 Category 4 hurricanes since 1851. The most recent were Kirk and Helene in 2024. Even though Helene was a tropical storm by the time it moved into North Carolina, it proved to be deadly and destructive.
It's proof that the category of a storm is not the sole factor that goes into determining a storm's impact.
Hurricane Category 5: Winds 157 mph or higher, Storm surge 18 ft or higher
Category 5 hurricanes are the most powerful type of storm on Earth. They can cause catastrophic damage with wind speeds of more than 157 mph. These storms are rare, but when they form they can be incredibly destructive.
In the Atlantic Ocean, there have been only 41 systems that have capped as Category 5s since records began in 1851.
The most recent were Milton and Beryl, which both happened in 2024.
Other notable Category 5 storms include Hurricane Irma (2017) which caused widespread damage in the Caribbean and Florida, Hurricane Katrina (2005), which caused devastating damage in Louisiana and Mississippi, and Hurricane Hugo (1989), which caused $7 billion in damage in South Carolina.
When a hurricane does memorable damage, the World Meteorological Organization retires that name and it is never used again.
Category 5 hurricanes can form anywhere in the world, but they are most common in the Pacific Ocean and the North Atlantic Ocean. The deadliest Category 5 hurricane on record was Hurricane Mitch, which killed more than 19,000 people in Central America in 1998.
Hurricane categories save lives
Hurricane categories do save lives. By being aware of the different categories, people can be better prepared for the potential damage a hurricane may cause. It is important to heed the warnings of officials and evacuate when necessary. Taking these precautions can help minimize the loss of life and property during a hurricane.
Related articles:
- Make a family emergency plan: Be prepared when severe weather arrives
- Hurricane-proof your NC home: Essential steps to weather the storm
- Homeowners insurance doesn't cover floods: How to protect your home in North Carolina
- NC hurricane season: What to do when a hurricane is coming
- Hurricane survival kit: How to keep your family safe when a hurricane hits