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saffir-simpson scale

The Saffir-Simpson scale is a rating device used by hurricane forecasters to gause a hurricane's present intensity.

Additional Information


The hurricane's wind speed is the determining factor in the scale, with Category 5 having the highest and most damaging wind speed and Category 1 having the lowest and least damaging wind speed. This scale provides an indicator of the potential property damage and flooding expected along the coast from a hurricane landfall.