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Categories of Hurricanes
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Tropical Wave |
Low pressure generally moving westward with the trade winds. |
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Tropical Disturbance |
An organized area of thunderstorms that usually forms in the
tropics. Typically, they maintain their identity for 24 hours and are
accompanied by heavy rains and gusty winds. |
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Tropical Cyclone |
A
generic term for any organized low pressure that develops over tropical and
sometimes sub-tropical waters. Tropical depressions, tropical storms, and
hurricanes are all example of tropical cyclones. |
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Tropical Depression |
An organized area of low pressure which sustains winds 38 mph or less. |
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Tropical Storm |
A
tropical cyclone with wind speeds that range from 39 to 73
mph. |
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Hurricane |
A
tropical cyclone with winds at least 74 mph. |
Hurricanes are measured by intensity on the
following scale
|
Category |
Wind Speed |
Storm Surge |
Damage Potential |
|
1 |
74 - 95 mph |
4 - 5 feet |
Minimal damage,
mostly to vegetation |
|
2 |
96 - 110 mph |
6 - 8 feet |
Moderate damage to
small buildings |
|
3 |
111 - 130 mph |
9 - 12 feet |
Extensive damage
to small buildings |
|
4 |
131 - 155 mph |
13 - 18 feet |
Extreme damage to
buildings |
|
5 |
155 mph or higher |
Greater than 18
feet |
Devastating damage to all
structures |
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