As Coloradans, we’re no strangers to nature’s power – from blizzards to wildfires, our weather has its own intensity. However, the recent hurricanes Milton and Helene have raised questions about how hurricanes are categorized, particularly as some of these storms reach destructive intensities. Hurricanes are categorized using the Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale, which measures sustained wind speed and estimates potential damage, assigning each hurricane a rating from Category 1 to Category 5. This scale helps gauge the potential impact of storms, ranging from minor damage to catastrophic destruction.
The Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale
This scale categorizes hurricanes based on sustained wind speeds, recorded using a U.S. 1-minute average. Each category signifies an increase in destructive power, with storms rated Category 3 and above classified as major hurricanes due to their capacity for extensive damage and loss of life. However, even lower categories require caution and preventative measures to ensure safety.
Category 1 Hurricane
Winds: 74-95 mph (119-153 km/h)
Damage: Though the lowest category, Category 1 hurricanes bring “very dangerous winds.” These storms can cause damage to roofs, shingles, and gutters of well-constructed homes, while large tree branches may snap, and shallow-rooted trees could be toppled. Power lines and poles can also be damaged, resulting in outages lasting several days.
Category 2 Hurricane
Winds: 96-110 mph (154-177 km/h)
Damage: Category 2 hurricanes bring “extremely dangerous winds,” often causing major roof and siding damage to well-built homes. Many shallow-rooted trees are likely to be uprooted, blocking roads and potentially delaying emergency responses. Power outages can last several days to weeks in impacted areas.
Category 3 Hurricane
Winds: 111-129 mph (178-208 km/h)
Damage: The increase in wind speed at Category 3 is significant. “Devastating damage” occurs in these storms, as roofs and gable ends of homes can be torn off. Trees are more extensively snapped or uprooted, and power and water may be unavailable for days to weeks after the storm has passed.
Category 4 Hurricane
Winds: 130-156 mph (209-251 km/h)
Damage: In a Category 4 hurricane, well-built homes can suffer severe structural damage, including the loss of much of the roof or even some exterior walls. Trees and power poles are generally snapped or toppled, leaving large residential areas isolated and without power. Infrastructure damage could take weeks or months to repair, and recovery can be especially challenging.
Category 5 Hurricane
Winds: 157 mph or higher (252 km/h or more)
Damage: A Category 5 hurricane delivers the peak of the scale’s destructive potential. “Catastrophic damage” can be expected, with most framed homes experiencing complete roof failure and potential wall collapse. Areas affected may be uninhabitable for weeks or even months due to severe power, infrastructure, and water outages. Notable Category 5 hurricanes like Hurricane Andrew in 1992 serve as reminders of the extreme destruction these storms can bring.
Hurricane Milton and Helene: Learning from Major Storms
Though hurricanes rarely impact Colorado directly, the sheer magnitude of recent storms like Milton and Helene captures our attention. Understanding the classification system helps us to comprehend the preparations and cautionary steps coastal areas must take when such storms approach. It also serves as a reminder of the resilience communities need to adapt and recover from these natural events.
As we watch these hurricanes develop, the Saffir-Simpson Scale provides insight into how much preparation is required based on wind speed alone. While these storms may not touch our state, they remind us of the value of preparedness, whether facing a blizzard, wildfire, or a storm from afar.