Basic Hurricane Information
“Hurricane Season” extends from June 1 – November 30, although hurricanes have occurred outside of this time frame. Because Florida has not been impacted by a major hurricane for 8 years, it’s easy to become complacent and choose not to prepare for a potentially catastrophic event.
The Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale rates hurricanes on a scale of Category 1-5, based on the maximum sustained wind speed. The higher the Category the greater the hurricane’s potential for property damage. Category 1 & 2 storms are dangerous and require preventative measures. Hurricanes reaching Category 3 & higher are considered major hurricanes because of their potential for significant damage and loss of life. Have you reviewed your homeowners insurance lately? Do you have flood insurance?
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Category
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Sustained Winds
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Type of Damage Due to Hurricane Winds
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1
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74-95 mph
64-82 kt /
119-153 km/h
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- Very dangerous winds will produce some damage
- Well-constructed frame homes could have damage to roof, shingles, vinyl siding and gutters.
- Large tree branches 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.
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2
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96-110 mph
83-95 kt /
154-177 km/h
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- 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.
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3
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111-129 mph
96-112 kt
178-208 km/h
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- 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.
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4
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130-156 mph
113-136 kt
209-251 km/h
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- 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.
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5
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157+ mph
137+ kt
252+ km/h
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- 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.
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