It’s important to educate yourself on the terminology associated with a hurricane so you understand what’s happening and how to stay safe.
IMPORTANT TERMS
Tropical Depression: Closed wind circulation around a center with sustained winds from 23 to 38 mph.
Tropical Storm: Maximum sustained winds are from 39 to 73 mph. The storm is named once it reaches tropical storm strength.
Hurricane: Tropical cyclone with winds of 74 mph or more; normally applied to storms in the Atlantic Basin and the Pacific Ocean east of the International Date Line.
Watch: A hurricane watch means a hurricane is possible in your area, generally within 36 hours.
Warning: A warning means sustained winds of 74 mph or higher associated with a hurricane are expected in a specified coastal area in 24 hours or less.
CATEGORIES (according to the National Hurricane Center)
Category 1
Sustained winds of 74-95 mph; Very dangerous winds will produce some damage. Well-constructed frame homes could have damage to roof, shingles, vinyl siding and gutters. Large branches of trees 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.
Category 2
Sustained winds of 96-110 mph; 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.
Category 3 (major)
Sustained winds of 111-129 mph; 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.
Category 4 (major)
Sustained winds of 130-156 mph; 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.
Category 5 (major)
Sustained winds of 157 mph or higher; 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.