what scale is used to classify hurricanes
The SaffirâSimpson Hurricane Scale is a classification used for some Western Hemisphere tropical cyclones that exceed the intensities of tropical depressions and tropical storms. The scale divides hurricanes into five categories distinguished by the intensities of their sustained winds. In order to be classified as a hurricane, a tropical cyclone must have maximum sustained winds of at least 74 mph (33 m/s); 74 mph (64 kn; 119 km/h). The highest classification in the scale, Category 5, is reserved for storms with winds exceeding 155 mph (69 m/s); 155 mph (135 kn; 249 km/h). Source: Wikipedia.