Tropical Cyclone Categories

Source: Tropical Storm Edouard 2002 | Wikimedia

A tropical cyclone in which the maximum 1-minute sustained surface wind ranges from 34 to 63 knots (39 to 73 mph) inclusive.

Source: Hurricane Katrina August 28 2005 NASA | Wikimedia

A tropical cyclone in the Atlantic, Caribbean Sea, Gulf of Mexico, or eastern Pacific in which the maximum 1-minute sustained surface wind is 64 knots (74 mph) or greater.

Source: Tropical Depresssion Fourteen | Wikimedia

A tropical cyclone in which the maximum 1-minute sustained surface wind is 33 knots (38 mph) or less.

A tropical disturbance is the first state of the development of a hurricane. It ismade up of areas of unsettled weather and thunderstorms. These systems have onlya slight wind circulation. Tropical disturbances commonly exist in areas near the tropical trade winds and are often accompanied by clouds and precipitation.

74 – 95 mph: Very dangerous winds will produce some damage.

96 – 110 mph: Extremely dangerous winds will cause extensive damage.

111 – 130 mph: Major Hurricane: Devastating damage will occur.

131 – 155 mph: Major Hurricane: Catastrophic damage will occur.

< 155 mph: Major Hurricane: Catastrophic damage will occur.