ATLANTA — When hurricanes form, the category number is often the first thing people want to know, and it's important to understand what the ratings really mean.
Hurricanes are ranked on the Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale, which classifies storms from Category 1 to Category 5 based on sustained wind speeds. The higher the category, the stronger the wind, and the greater the potential for damage.
Category 1: High Winds Begin
A Category 1 hurricane has winds between 74 and 95 mph.
These storms can damage roofs, siding, and trees, while power outages may last for several days. Even though Category 1 storms are considered the weakest hurricanes, they can still cause flooding, tornadoes, and dangerous storm surge.
Category 2: Damage Potential Increases
Category 2 hurricanes produce winds from 96 to 110 mph.
Stronger winds can cause widespread tree damage, major power outages, and structural damage to homes. Some areas may become uninhabitable for days or even weeks.
Category 3: Major Hurricane Status
Once a hurricane reaches Category 3 strength, it becomes classified as a “major hurricane.”
Winds range from 111 to 129 mph, capable of causing devastating damage. Many trees can be snapped or uprooted, homes may sustain major roof and wall damage, and utilities could remain offline for an extended period.
Category 4: Catastrophic Damage Likely
Category 4 hurricanes carry winds between 130 and 156 mph.
These storms can level trees and power poles, destroy roofs, and leave neighborhoods without electricity or water for weeks. Evacuations are often ordered well before a Category 4 hurricane arrives.
Category 5: The Most Powerful Hurricanes
A Category 5 hurricane has sustained winds of at least 157 mph.
These storms are capable of catastrophic destruction, including collapsed roofs, destroyed homes, and long-term infrastructure damage. Recovery from a direct hit can take months or even years.
Categories Don’t Tell the Whole Story
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration or NOAA says it is important to understand the Saffir Simpson Scale only measures maximum sustained wind speed, which isn't the whole story. Other threats such as flooding, storm surge and tornadoes can be just as deadly.
Some lower-category hurricanes have caused catastrophic flooding and deadly storm surge. In many cases, water — not wind — becomes the deadliest threat. Take for example Helene in 2024. By the time it reached Western North Carolina, the once powerful Category 4 storm had weakened to tropical storm strength, however extreme flooding devastated the region and led to at least 108 deaths.
So this hurricane season, don’t focus only on the category number, and remember every storm carries different risks.