Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale
Category 1
74-95 mph
1
2
3
4
5
Damage to roof shingles, vinyl siding, and gutters
Large branches of trees will snap
Shallowly rooted trees may topple
Extensive damage to power lines
Category 2
96-110 mph
1
2
3
4
5
Extensive damage
Major roof and siding damage
Trees will be snapped and uprooted
Near total power loss is expected
Category 3
111-129 mph
1
2
3
4
5
Removal of roof decking and gable ends
Many trees will be snapped and uprooted
Electricity and water will be unavailable for several days to weeks
Category 4
130-156 mph
1
2
3
4
5
Loss of most of the roof structure and/or some exterior walls
Most trees will be snapped or uprooted
Fallen trees and power poles will isolate residential areas
Power outages will last weeks to possibly months
Much of the area will be uninhabitable
Category 5
157+ mph
1
2
3
4
5
A large percentage of framed homes will be destroyed
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