The Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Scale used to categorize the strength of Hurricanes has recently been revised. NOAA’s National Hurricane Center reportedly revised the scale so as to eliminate confusion and better predict the anticipated extent of damage.

The Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Scale (old and new) classifies hurricanes by strength into one of five (5) categories based on maximum sustained 1-minute wind speeds. The categories are as follows; Category 1 starts at 74 mph and is anticipated to include "Very dangerous winds (that) will produce some damage". Category 2 starts at 96 mph and is anticipated to include "Extremely dangerous winds (that) will cause extensive damage". Category 3 starts at 111 mph and it is anticipated that "Devastating damage will occur". Category 4 starts at 131 mph and it is anticipated that "Catastrophic damage will occur", and Category 5 starts at 156 mph and it is also anticipated that "Catastrophic damage will occur".

The old scale categorized storms based on a wind speed range and included storm surge heights as well as brief description of anticipated damages. While the new scale still uses the same wind speed range when categorizing storms, it has removed estimated storm surge heights and flooding. NOAA stated within its public announcement that estimates of storm surge heights and flooding will now be communicated via Public Advisories.

The new Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Scale does however include a significantly expanded description of anticipated extent of damage. The anticipated damage descriptions have been segregated by system and now provide descriptions for: People, Livestock, and Pets; Mobile Homes; Frame Homes; Apartments, Shopping Centers, and Industrial Buildings; High-Rise Windows and Glass; Signage, Fences, and Canopies; Trees; Power and Water. The new scale even includes a brief summary along with examples based on historical storms.

The new scale can be accessed on NOAA’s web site at: http://www.nhc.noaa.gov/sshws_table.shtml?large

Hurricane Season began on June 1st. If you would like to know how vulnerable your home or other structure is, contact William Bracken at wbracken@brackenengineering.com.