The Safir/Simpson Scale

This scale rates the strength of hurricanes according to five categories:

Tropical Depression

The beginning stage of a tropical storm, with winds of 39 mph (62km/h).

Tropical Storm

A tropical depression has formed and strengthened.

Winds are between 39 and 73 mph.

Hurricane ( Category 1 )

Winds are 74 to 95 mph (118-152km/h).

Plants, unanchored mobile homes and poorly made signs would suffer damage. Sea levels would surge 4 to 5 feet (1.3m-1.6m) above normal, causing flooding of coastal roads.

Example: Hurricane Jerry (1989).

Hurricane ( Category 2 )

Winds are 96 to 110 mph (154 - 176km/h).

Some trees would be blown over and plants would suffer significant damage. There should be no major structural damage to buildings, but roofs, windows and doors could suffer some damage.

Example: Hurricane Bob (1991)

Hurricane ( Category 3 )

Winds are 111 to 130 mph (178 - 208km/h).

Large trees would be blown down. Poorly constructed signs would be destroyed. There would be damage to roofs, windows and doors, with some structural damage to small buildings inland. Near the coast small structures and mobile homes would be destroyed, and larger structures would be damaged by the sea.

Example: Hurricane Gloria (1985)

Hurricane ( Category 4 )

Winds are 131 to 155 mph (210 - 248km/h).

Shrubs, trees and all signs would be blown down. Inland roofs, windows and doors would be extensively damaged. Mobile homes would be destroyed. Storm surge would push sea levels 13 to 18 feet above normal, cutting evacuation routes three to five hours before the storm hits. Major erosion of beaches. Massive evacuation of all residences within 500 yards of shore possibly required, and of single-story residences within 2 miles of shore.

Example: Hurricane Andrew (1992)

Hurricane ( Category 5 )

Winds more than 155 mph (248km/h).

Destruction of some buildings. Roofs on many homes and industrial buildings would collapse, while windows and doors would suffer severe damage. Massive evacuation of residential areas on low ground within 5 to 10 miles of shore possibly required.

Example: Hurricane Camille (1969)