What are the different categories?

Hurricanes are classified based on the strength of their sustained winds, and the categorization helps to predict potential damage and storm impact. The classifications include tropical depressions, tropical storms, and the different categories of hurricanes, as outlined below:

1. Tropical Depression

• Wind Speed: Up to 38 mph (62 km/h)

• Description: A tropical depression is the weakest stage of a tropical cyclone. It is a low-pressure system with organized thunderstorms and a defined circulation but with winds below tropical storm strength.

2. Tropical Storm

• Wind Speed: 39–73 mph (63–118 km/h)

• Description: A tropical storm has stronger winds and more organized thunderstorms than a tropical depression. It can bring heavy rains, flooding, and winds that can cause some damage, particularly to trees, power lines, and minor structures. At this stage, the storm is given an official name.

3. Hurricane (Categories 1-5)

Hurricanes are classified using the Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale, which divides hurricanes into five categories based on wind speeds and the potential for damage:

Category 1 Hurricane

• Wind Speed: 74–95 mph (119–153 km/h)

• Potential Damage: Minimal. Some damage to roofs, siding, and gutters. Large tree branches may snap, and power lines may go down, leading to power outages.

• Category 2 Hurricane

• Wind Speed: 96–110 mph (154–177 km/h)

• Potential Damage: Moderate. Significant damage to roofs and siding, trees snapped or uprooted, and near-total power outages lasting days to weeks.

Category 3 Hurricane (Major Hurricane)

• Wind Speed: 111–129 mph (178–208 km/h)

• Potential Damage: Devastating. Extensive damage to homes, large trees snapped or uprooted, and electricity and water may be unavailable for several days to weeks. Category 3 hurricanes are considered "major" hurricanes due to their potential for significant destruction.

Category 4 Hurricane (Major Hurricane)

• Wind Speed: 130–156 mph (209–251 km/h)

• Potential Damage: Catastrophic. Severe damage to well-built homes, with most trees snapped or uprooted, and power poles downed. Power outages and water shortages may last weeks to months.

Category 5 Hurricane (Major Hurricane)

• Wind Speed: 157 mph or higher (252 km/h or higher)

• Potential Damage: Catastrophic. High percentage of homes destroyed, with total roof failure and wall collapse possible. The area could be uninhabitable for weeks or months due to the destruction of infrastructure, power, and water supply.

Summary of Wind Speeds:

• Tropical Depression: Up to 38 mph (62 km/h)

• Tropical Storm: 39–73 mph (63–118 km/h)

• Category 1 Hurricane: 74–95 mph (119–153 km/h)

• Category 2 Hurricane: 96–110 mph (154–177 km/h)

• Category 3 Hurricane: 111–129 mph (178–208 km/h)

• Category 4 Hurricane: 130–156 mph (209–251 km/h)

• Category 5 Hurricane: 157+ mph (252+ km/h)

The higher the category, the greater the potential for significant damage to buildings, infrastructure, and human life.