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Tropical cyclones fall into one of three categories based on their maximum sustained wind speeds: “ tropical depression: maximum sustained winds less than 38 mph (61 kph) “ tropical storm: maximum sustained winds of 39 to 73 mph (62.7 to 117.5 kph) “ hurricane, typhoon, or cyclone: maximum sustained winds of 74 mph (119 kph) or higher Hurricanes are divided into further categories Hurricane Categories The Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale is used to rate a hurricane based on its maximum sustained wind speed and does not take into account other deadly hazards a hurricane can cause. The hurricane wind scale ranges from category 1 to category 5, and are as follows: Category 1: Very dangerous winds between 74 and 95 mph (119 and 152.9 kph) that will cause some damage and power outages for a few days are likely. Category 2: Extremely dangerous winds between 96 and 110 mph (154.5 and 177 kph) that will cause extensive damage and a near-total power loss that could last up to a few weeks. Category 3: Devastating damage will occur from winds between 111 and 129 mph (178.6 and 207.7 kph). Electricity and water will be unavailable for up to several weeks, and trees will be snapped or uprooted, blocking roads. Category 4: Catastrophic damage will occur from winds between 130 and 156 mph (209 and 251 kph). Even well-built

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Facing the Weather: Hurricanes