A hurricane is categorized by its wind speed using the Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Scale. Category 1: Winds 119-153 km/hr (74-95 mph) – faster than a cheetah Category 2: Winds 154-177 km/hr (96-110 mph) – as fast or faster than a baseball pitcher’s fastball.
Hurricane winds are measured using the Saffir-Simpson Hurricane scale. This scale was first developed in the late 1960s and was further developed in the early 1970s. It uses measurements in pressure, wind speed, storm surge, and damage potential to put hurricanes into 5 categories. Below is a guide to hurricane categories and the damage they.
There are five types or categories of hurricanes, which are classified on a 1-5 rating based on wind speed. Storms are rated on their strength based on the Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale. Small storms are classified as category 1 or 2 storms, while those identified as 3-5 on the scale are considered major storms.
A common inquiry we ran across in our research was “What are the different categories of hurricanes?”.
Winds less than 39 mph: Tropical depressions. Winds 39-73 mph: Tropical storms. Winds 74 mph or greater : Hurricanes.
Moreover, how many categories are there in a hurricane?
The winds are considered extremely dangerous and will cause extensive damage, such as: Major roof and siding damage to framed homes. Major power outages that could last days to weeks. Many uprooted trees and blocked roads.
Winds 39-73 mph. Winds 74-95 mph (64-82 kt)Category 2 Hurricane. Winds 96-110 mph (83-95 kt)Category 3 Hurricane. Winds 111-130 mph (96-113 kt)Category 4 Hurricane. Winds 131-155 mph (114-135 kt)Category 5 Hurricane. Winds 156 mph and up (135+ kt).
How bad is a Category 2 hurricane?
Category 2 hurricanes have winds of 96 mph to 110 mph. A major problem with Category 2 hurricanes is that winds are strong enough to break power poles — which can, in turn, create blackouts. Category 2 hurricane winds can also cause damage to residential roofs, windows, and doors. Power outages are common.