Understanding the Storm

Watch Versus Warning 

A Hurricane Watch means hurricane conditions (sustained winds of at least 74 mph) are possible in the announced area within 48 hours.

A Hurricane Warning means hurricane conditions (sustained winds of at least 74 mph) are expected in the announced area in 36 hours or less

The Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale 

CATEGORY 1 

  • Winds: 74 - 95mph

  • Storm Surge: 4-5 feet

  • Damage: Inundation of lulling coastal areas, small craft in exposed anchorages torn from moorings, some pier damage.

CATEGORY 2 

  • Winds: 96 - 110mph

  • Storm Surge: 6-8 feet

  • Damage: Coastal roads and low-lying escape routes located inland being cut off by rising water two to four hours before the arrival of the center of the hurricane. Some damage to windows, doors and roofing materials.

CATEGORY 3 

  • Winds: 111 - 129mph

  • Storm Surge: 9-12 feet

  • Damage: Same as Cat 2. Mobile homes are damaged and destroyed. Major damage to windows, doors, and roofing materials.

CATEGORY 4 

  • Winds: 130 - 156mph

  • Storm Surge: 13-18 feet

  • Damage: Low-lying escape routes inland will be cut off by rising water three to five hours before the center of the hurricane arrives. Major damage to the lower floors of buildings near shorescaused by flooding and battering by waves and flying debris. Collapse of roofs of many small residences.

CATEGORY 5 

  • Winds: 157+mph

  • Storm Surge: 18+ feet

  • Damage: Same as Cat 4, small buildings will be overturned or blown away. Extensive shattering of glass in windows and doors. Collapse of roofs of residential and industrial buildings. Some buildings will collapse.

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