Hurricane categories: the Saffir-Simpson scale
The Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale rates hurricanes from Category 1 (74–95 mph sustained winds) to Category 5 (157 mph or higher) based on sustained wind speed alone. Categories 3, 4 and 5 are classed as "major" hurricanes. The scale estimates potential wind damage; it does not measure storm surge, rainfall or tornadoes, which are assessed separately.
Source: NOAA / National Hurricane Center.
Saffir-Simpson categories
| Category | Sustained winds (mph) | Sustained winds (km/h) | Damage potential |
|---|---|---|---|
| Category 1 | 74–95 | 119–153 | Very dangerous winds will produce some damage |
| Category 2 | 96–110 | 154–177 | Extremely dangerous winds will cause extensive damage |
| Category 3 | 111–129 | 178–208 | Devastating damage will occur |
| Category 4 | 130–156 | 209–251 | Catastrophic damage will occur |
| Category 5 | 157 or higher | 252 or higher | Catastrophic damage will occur |
Source: NOAA / National Hurricane Center.
What each category means
Category 1 — 74–95 mph
Damage to roofs, shingles, vinyl siding and gutters. Large branches snap; shallow-rooted trees may topple. Extensive power outages possible, lasting a few to several days.
Category 2 — 96–110 mph
Major roof and siding damage to well-built homes. Many shallow-rooted trees uprooted, blocking roads. Near-total power loss expected, with outages lasting days to weeks.
Category 3 — 111–129 mph
Major damage or removal of roof decking and gable ends on well-built homes. Many trees snapped or uprooted. Electricity and water unavailable for several days to weeks. (Category 3 and above are 'major' hurricanes.)
Category 4 — 130–156 mph
Severe damage with loss of most of the roof structure and some exterior walls. Most trees snapped or uprooted; power poles downed. Areas may be uninhabitable for weeks to months.
Category 5 — 157 or higher mph
A high percentage of framed homes destroyed, with total roof failure and wall collapse. Fallen trees and power poles isolate residential areas. Most of the area uninhabitable for weeks or months.
Why category alone does not tell the whole story
The Saffir-Simpson scale captures wind risk, but much of a hurricane's danger comes from water. Storm surge, heavy rainfall and inland flooding can be catastrophic even from a Category 1 or 2 storm, and remnants can trigger flood declarations hundreds of miles inland. See our hurricane categories explained guide and the states with the most hurricane declarations.
Frequently asked questions
What wind speed is a Category 5 hurricane?
A Category 5 hurricane on the Saffir-Simpson scale has sustained winds of 157 mph (252 km/h) or higher, capable of catastrophic damage that leaves areas uninhabitable for weeks or months.
What is a 'major' hurricane?
A major hurricane is Category 3 or higher (winds of 111 mph / 178 km/h and above). The Saffir-Simpson scale rates hurricanes 1–5 by sustained wind speed only; it does not account for storm surge, rainfall or tornadoes.
Does the Saffir-Simpson scale measure storm surge?
No. Since 2010 the scale measures sustained wind speed only. Storm surge, flooding and rainfall are assessed separately by the National Hurricane Center, because a lower-category storm can still produce deadly surge and inland flooding.
HazardMap is not affiliated with or endorsed by NOAA or the National Hurricane Center. This is a reference summary for general information only; consult official forecasts and local emergency management during a storm.
Last updated: 2026-06-18