Saffir/Simpson Hurricane Scale

Category

Central Pressure
Mean (millibars)

Winds
mph
(km/h)

Surge (ft)

Damage

1

980  or more

74 - 95mph (119 - 151km/h)

4-5

Damage mostly to poorly constructed signs, trees, foliage, and unanchored homes, low lying coastal roads flooded, minor pier damage, etc. No real damage to other structures.
Summary: Very dangerous winds will produce some damage

2

965 - 979

96 - 110mph (152 - 176km/h)

6-8

Tree blown down, considerable damage to shrubbery, poorly constructed signs, mobile homes, roofing material, windows, doors and piers. NO major damage to buildings but evacuation of some coastline residences will be likely.

Summary: Extremely dangerous winds will cause extensive damage

3

945 - 964

111-130mph (177 - 209km/h)

9-12

Practically all poorly constructed signs destroyed, foliage torn from trees, large trees blown down, damage to roofing materials and structural damage to small buildings. Serious flooding at coast, with many smaller structures near coast destroyed. Evacuation of residences near shoreline required.
Summary: Devastating damage will occur

4

920 - 944

131 - 155mph (210 - 248km/h)

13-18

All signs down, shrubs and trees blown down, extensive damage to roofs, windows and doors. Major damage to lower floors of structures near shore due to flooding and battering by waves and floating debris. Major erosion of beaches, flat terrain 10 feet or less above sea level flooded inland as far as 6 miles. Massive evacuation of all residences within 500 yards of shore and of single story residences within 2 miles of shore.
Summary: Catastrophic damage will occur )

5

less than 920

more than 155mph (248km/h)

more than 18

Complete failure of roofs, on many residences and buildings, severe damage to windows and doors and glass structures, some complete building collapse. Low lying escape routes cut by flooding, massive evacuation of residential areas on low ground within 5-10 miles likely.
Summary: Catastrophic damage will occur