Introduction to the Saffir-Simpson Intensity Scale

The Saffir-Simpson intensity scale is used to categorize hurricanes based on their intensity. Tropical systems tracked by the National Hurricane Center will be classified as depressions, tropical storms, and hurricanes based on their intensity.

Classification of Tropical Systems

The NHC will label a system a tropical depression when it has sustained winds below 38 mph but shows the characteristics of organization and rotation of a cyclone that could develop into a stronger storm. When it reaches 39 mph sustained winds, it is labeled a tropical storm.

Hurricane Classification

It isn’t until sustained winds of 74 mph or greater are reached that a system will be named a hurricane. At that point, the NHC uses the Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Scale of intensity to categorize it on a scale of 1-5.

Category 1 Hurricanes

Category 1: Sustained winds between 74-95 mph. Examples of Category 1 hurricanes that hit Florida include Hurricane Erin in 1995, Hurricane Irene in 1999, Hurricane Nicole in 2022, and Hurricane Debby in 2024.
The NHC states, “Well-constructed frame homes could have damage to roof, shingles, vinyl siding, and gutters. Large branches of trees will snap and shallowly rooted trees may be toppled. Extensive damage to power lines and poles likely will result in power outages that could last a few to several days.”

Category 2 Hurricanes

Category 2: Sustained winds between 96-110 mph. Examples of Category 2 hurricanes that hit Florida include Hurricane Frances in 2004 and Hurricane Sally in 2020 (although its eyewall made landfall in Gulf Shores, Alabama).
The NHC states, “Well-constructed frame homes could sustain major roof and siding damage. Many shallowly rooted trees will be snapped or uprooted and block numerous roads. Near-total power loss is expected with outages that could last from several days to weeks.”

Category 3 Hurricanes

Category 3: Sustained winds between 111-129 mph. Examples of Category 3 hurricanes that hit Florida include Hurricane Jeanne in 2004, Hurricane Wilma in 2005, Hurricane Idalia in 2023, and Hurricane Milton in 2024.
The NHC states, “Well-built framed homes may incur major damage or removal of roof decking and gable ends. Many trees will be snapped or uprooted, blocking numerous roads. Electricity and water will be unavailable for several days to weeks after the storm passes.”

Category 4 Hurricanes

Category 4: Sustained winds between 130-156 mph. Examples of Category 4 hurricanes that hit Florida include Hurricane Charley in 2004, Hurricane Irma in 2017, Hurricane Ian in 2024, and Hurricane Helene in 2024.
The NHC states, “Well-built framed homes can sustain severe damage with loss of most of the roof structure and/or some exterior walls. Most trees will be snapped or uprooted and power poles downed. Fallen trees and power poles will isolate residential areas. Power outages will last weeks to possibly months. Most of the area will be uninhabitable for weeks or months.”

Category 5 Hurricanes

Category 5: Sustained winds greater than 157 mph. Examples of Category 5 hurricanes that hit Florida include Hurricane Andrew in 1992 and Hurricane Michael in 2018.
The NHC states, “A high percentage of framed homes will be destroyed, with total roof failure and wall collapse. Fallen trees and power poles will isolate residential areas. Power outages will last for weeks to possibly months. Most of the area will be uninhabitable for weeks or months.”

Conclusion

The Saffir-Simpson intensity scale provides a way to categorize hurricanes based on their intensity, which is crucial for predicting the potential damage and impact of a hurricane. Understanding the different categories of hurricanes and their potential effects can help individuals and communities prepare and respond to these powerful storms.

FAQs

Q: What is the Saffir-Simpson intensity scale?
A: The Saffir-Simpson intensity scale is a system used to categorize hurricanes based on their intensity, with categories ranging from 1 (minimal damage) to 5 (catastrophic damage).
Q: What are the different categories of hurricanes?
A: The different categories of hurricanes are:

• Category 1: Sustained winds between 74-95 mph
• Category 2: Sustained winds between 96-110 mph
• Category 3: Sustained winds between 111-129 mph
• Category 4: Sustained winds between 130-156 mph
• Category 5: Sustained winds greater than 157 mph
  Q: How are tropical systems classified?
  A: Tropical systems are classified as depressions, tropical storms, and hurricanes based on their intensity.
  Originally Published: May 29, 2025 at 2:37 PM EDT