Weather Flash: Saffir Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale

WASHINGTON ( DC News Now ) — Hurricanes are strong storms that cause multiple damages in areas that they pass through.

The National Hurricane Center determines the strength of a hurricane based on its wind speeds.

The Saffir Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale is broken up into five different categories.

Category One: This tends to be on the weaker end of a hurricane. Winds are sustained between 74-95 mph, and dangerous winds will cause some damage.

Category Two: Winds are sustained between 96-110 mph with extremely dangerous winds causing extensive damage.

Category Three: This category is the start of major hurricane status. Winds are sustained between 111-129 mph with devastating damage occurring.

Category Four: Major hurricane status. Winds are sustained between 130-156 mph and catastrophic damage will occur.

Category Five: Last category and major hurricane status. Winds are 157+ mph. Catastrophic damage will occur.

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