When a hurricane is anticipated and you watch the news, you will often hear that it is deemed a category 1, 2, 3, 4, or 5. But what does this actually mean?
This is known as the Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale, and these numbers provide a rating based on the wind speed of the hurricane. The scale can be used to determine the potential damage that will occur due to the hurricane.
As hurricanes happen throughout the United States, if you are based in a hurricane area, it is really important to know what the scale means so that you can take steps to prepare your home and so you can have a realistic understanding of what damage is likely to happen. Read on to discover what each category means.
This is known as the Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale, and these numbers provide a rating based on the wind speed of the hurricane. The scale can be used to determine the potential damage that will occur due to the hurricane.
As hurricanes happen throughout the United States, if you are based in a hurricane area, it is really important to know what the scale means so that you can take steps to prepare your home and so you can have a realistic understanding of what damage is likely to happen. Read on to discover what each category means.
Preparing For Damage To Your Home During A Hurricane
Category 5:
This is the worst type of hurricane on the hurricane scale, with winds reaching 157 mph and higher. A hurricane of this category will cause catastrophic damage. The vast majority of the area will not be habitable for weeks and even months. Power outages will last for weeks, there will be fallen power palls and trees, as well as a high percentage of homes destroyed. One of the most interesting hurricane facts is that only nine hurricanes in history have reached Category 5 in intensity on more than one occasion, meaning they have weakened and then gotten stronger again. These hurricanes are Maria, Irma, Felix, Dean, Ivan, Isabel, Andrew, Allen, and Camille.
Category 4:
A category 4 hurricane will reach wind speeds between 130 and 156 mph. The impact in terms of property damage will be fairly similar to a category 5 hurricane.
Category 3:
A category 3 hurricane is also considered a major hurricane, with winds reaching speeds between 111 and 129 mph. This will cause devastating damage, with water and electricity unavailable for weeks until the storm has passed. A lot of trees will be uprooted and snapped, blocking many roads. There may also be major damage to properties in the area, including the removal of gable ends and roof decking.
Category 2:
A category 2 hurricane is not considered a major hurricane, although they are still extremely dangerous. Winds will reach speeds between 96 and 110 mph, and extensive damage can be expected. Outages can last for several days or weeks. There is also likely to be major siding and roof damage. Although these hurricanes can cause damage, a lot of homeowners use this as a chance to rebuild. From investing in a more energy efficient roof to choosing more durable siding. When rebuilding, think about the future.
Category 1:
A category 1 hurricane will reach wind speeds between 74 and 95 mph. These windows are very dangerous and will produce some damage. Some trees may topple and there is likely to be property damage to gutters, vinyl siding, shingles, and the roof. Shallowly rooted trees may also topple and large tree branches are likely to snap and cause blockages.
So there you have it: everything you need to know about the hurricane scale and the expected damage.
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