Hurricane Season is Coming

“Hurricane Season” extends from June 1 through November 30, although hurricanes have occurred outside of this time frame. Because Florida has not been impacted by a major hurricane for 8 years, it’s easy to become complacent and choose not to prepare for a potentially catastrophic event.

The Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale

The Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale rates hurricanes on a scale of Category 1-5, based on the maximum sustained wind speed. The higher the Category, the greater the hurricane’s potential for property damage. Category 1 and 2 storms are dangerous, and require preventative measures. Hurricanes reaching Category 3 and higher are considered major hurricanes because of their potential for significant damage and loss of life.

Category 1 (74-95 mph)

1. Very dangerous winds will produce some damage
2. Well-constructed frame homes could have damage to roof, shingles, vinyl siding and gutters.
3. Large tree branches will snap and shallowly rooted trees may be toppled.
4. Extensive damage to power lines and poles likely will result in power outages that could last a few to several days.

Category 2 (96-110 mph)

1. Extremely dangerous winds will cause extensive damage
2. Well-constructed frame homes could sustain major roof and siding damage.
3. Many shallowly rooted trees will be snapped or uprooted and block numerous roads.
4. Near-total power loss is expected with outages that could last from several days to weeks.

Category 3 (111-129 mph)

1. Devastating damage will occur
2. Well-built framed homes may incur major damage or removal of roof decking and gable ends.
3. Many trees will be snapped or uprooted, blocking numerous roads.
4. Electricity and water will be unavailable for several days to weeks after the storm passes.

Category 4 (130-156 mph)

1. Catastrophic damage will occur
2. Well-built framed homes can sustain severe damage with loss of most of the roof structure and/or some exterior walls.
3. Most trees will be snapped or uprooted and power poles downed.
4. Fallen trees and power poles will isolate residential areas.
5. Power outages will last weeks to possibly months.
6. Most of the area will be uninhabitable for weeks or months.

Category 5 (157+ mph)

1. Catastrophic damage will occur
2. A high percentage of framed homes will be destroyed, with total roof failure and wall collapse.
3. Fallen trees and power poles will isolate residential areas.
4. Power outages will last for weeks to possibly months.
5. Most of the area will be uninhabitable for weeks or months.