Hurricanes are classified into categories based on their wind speeds and potential for damage. The Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale is the most commonly used scale to categorize hurricanes, ranging from Category 1 to Category 5. Here are the details of each category:

Category 1 (74-95 mph or 119-153 km/h): Winds at this level can cause minimal damage. Trees and poorly constructed buildings might sustain damage, and power outages could occur. Coastal flooding and minor storm surge are possible.

Category 2 (96-110 mph or 154-177 km/h): More extensive damage can occur at this level. Well-constructed homes might experience roof and siding damage. Power outages may last for several days, and coastal areas can experience moderate storm surges.

Category 3 (111-129 mph or 178-208 km/h): This is considered a major hurricane. Devastating damage can happen. Structural damage to homes is likely, and trees and power poles may be uprooted. Extensive power outages can last for weeks, and coastal areas can experience significant storm surges.

Category 4 (130-156 mph or 209-251 km/h): Catastrophic damage can occur at this level. Well-built homes may experience severe damage, and most trees can be uprooted. Power outages can last weeks to months, and coastal areas can see extreme storm surges causing significant flooding.

Category 5 (157 mph or higher or 252 km/h or higher): This is the most severe category. Catastrophic damage is expected. High percentage of framed homes will be destroyed, and most trees will be uprooted or snapped. Power outages can last for weeks to months, and coastal areas can face devastating storm surges leading to extensive flooding.

It’s essential to note that the Saffir-Simpson scale primarily focuses on wind speed and doesn’t fully encompass all the potential hazards associated with hurricanes, such as heavy rainfall, storm surges, and inland flooding, which can also cause significant destruction and loss of life.