Print
Email
The Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Scale is a 1-5 rating based on the hurricane's present intensity. This is used to give an estimate of the potential property damage and flooding expected along the coast from a hurricane landfall. Wind speed is the determining factor in the scale, as storm surge values are highly dependent on the slope of the continental shelf in the landfall region. Wind speeds are measured using a 1-minute average.
| Category | Average Wind (mph) | Representative Hurricanes |
|---|---|---|
| Category One | 74 - 95 | Danny; 1997 |
| Category Two | 96 - 110 | Bonnie & Georges; 1998 |
| Category Three | 111 - 130 | Rita; 2005 |
| Category Four | 131 - 155 | Charley; 2004 |
| Category Five | 156 + | Andrew; 1992 |
More Articles:
