Hurricanes and their potential for destruction are rated using a scale from 1 to 5 called the Saffir-Simpson scale. A Category 1 hurricane is the least destructive and a Category 5 hurricane is the most destructive. There are three types of damage caused by hurricanes:
* Wind Damage
Hurricane-force winds, 74 mph or more, can destroy poorly constructed buildings and mobile homes. Debris, such as signs, roofing material, siding, and small items left outside, become flying missiles in hurricanes. Winds often stay above hurricane strength well inland.
* Storm Surge Damage
Storm surge is a large dome of water often 50 to 100 miles wide that sweeps across the coastline near where a hurricane makes landfall. The surge of high water topped by waves is devastating. The stronger the hurricane and the shallower the offshore water, the higher the surge will be. Along the immediate coast, storm surge is the greatest threat to life and property.
* Flood Damage
Widespread torrential rains often in excess of 6 inches can produce deadly and destructive floods. This is the major threat to areas well inland.