Tropical Weather
Hurricane Categories
Hurricanes are rated using the Saffir-Simpson scale. For more details, look below.  
 
 
Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale
 
The Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale is used to classify the strength of hurricanes. The scale uses wind speed as a determining factor...with hurricanes rated from Category 1 (74-95 mph) to Category 5 (155 + mph).
 
Link of Interest
More About The Scale
 
Below is a table showing the Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale, along with a few past hurricanes and where they were represented on the scale.
 
Category Wind Speed (mph) Example
Category 1 Hurricane 74-95 Dolly (2008)
Category 2 Hurricane 96-110 Frances (2004)
Category 3 Hurricane 111-130 Ivan (2004)
Category 4 Hurricane 131-155 Charley (2004)
Category 5 Hurricane 155+ Andrew (1992)
 
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