Hurricane categories, potential damage capacity explained: All you need to know

The 2022 hurricane season began relatively subdued but began to pick up as time went on, and today Hurricane Ian is making its way to the US. The governor, Ron DeSantis, has declared a state of emergency, and shelters have been geared up to house the affected.

A rundown on the type of categories of hurricanes and the severity of damage they pose on hitting landfall. The National Weather Service (NWS) uses the Saffir-Simpson Scale, which calculates the constant wind speeds of hurricanes. One being the weakest and the five strongest.

CATEGORY 1

A wind speed of 74-95 mph (119 to 153 mph). The storm could rip off roofs, and trees can fall and damage the power supply.

CATEGORY 2
Wind speeds are between 96-110 mph (154 to 177 mph). Large homes can get affected by the speeds of the hurricane. Trees will be flung out of the soil, and power failure is imminent.

CATEGORY 3
These are hurricanes. 111 to 129 mph (177 to 207 kmph), with well-built homes, could crumble. There would be no water or electricity.

CATEGORY 4
Winds of 130 to 156 mph (210 to 251 mph). These can cause significant damage to exterior walls. Trees would be uprooted, and power poles lying on water could be dangerous.

CATEGORY 5
Major flooding and damage to power lines. Walls and roofs can collapse. Wind speeds would be 157 mph (253 km and above).

FAQ

1. Name the year Hurricane Michael (Category 5) hit Florida.
   2018.
2. How many people died due to Hurricane Michael?
   45 people