| Category |
Sustained Winds |
Types of Damage Due to Hurricane Winds |
| 1 |
74-95 mph
64-82 kt
119-153 km/h |
Very dangerous winds will produce some damage: 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. |
| 2 |
96-110 mph
83-95 kt
154-177 km/h |
Extremely dangerous winds will cause extensive damage: 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. |
3
(major) |
111-129 mph
96-112 kt
178-208 km/h |
Devastating damage will occur: 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. |
4
(major) |
130-156 mph
113-136 kt
209-251 km/h |
Catastrophic damage will occur: 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. |
5
(major) |
157 mph or higher
137 kt or higher
252 km/h or higher |
Catastrophic damage will occur: 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. |
