In USA hurricanes are ranked using Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Scale. The scale is used to give an estimate of the potential property loss and flooding expected from a hurricane landfall.
The Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Scale
Category
Pressure (mb)
Wind Speed
Storm Surge
Destruction
Category I
>980
74-95 mph 64-82 knots 119-153 kmph
4-5 ft above normal
Minimal
Category II
965-979
96-110 mph 83-95 knots 154-177 kmph
6-8 ft above normal
Moderate
Category III
945-964
111-130 mph 96-113 knots 178-209 kmph
9-12 ft above normal
Extensive
Category IV
920-944
131-155 mph 114-135 knots 210-249 kmph
13-18 ft above normal
Extreme
Category V
< 920
Greater than155 mph Greater than 135 knots Greater than 249 kmph
Greater than 18 ft above normal
Catastrophic
For complete details refer to http://www.nhc.noaa.gov/aboutsshs.shtml
An exclusive online store of maps, globes, atlases, travel guides, and CDs. World Maps
