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Home » Hurricane Season

The Atlantic Hurricane Season officially begins on June 1 and ends on November 30. There have been instances however where hurricanes have occurred outside of this period.

When the maximum sustained winds of a tropical storm reach 74 miles per hour, it is called a hurricane. These storms can be very destructive forces of nature. Be prepared.

There are five categories of hurricanes and these are described in the below table:
Source: NOAA

   
Category Sustained Winds Description of Possible Hurricane Wind Impact
1 74-95 mph 64-82 kt 119-153 km/h Very dangerous winds will produce some damage: Well-constructed framed homes could have damage to roof, shingles, vinyl siding and gutters. Large branches of trees will snap, and shallowly rooted trees may be uprooted.
Category Sustained Winds Description of Possible Hurricane Wind Impact
2 96-110 mph 83-95 kt 154-177 km/h Extremely dangerous winds will cause extensive damage: Well-constructed framed homes could sustain major roof and siding damage. Many shallowly rooted trees will be snapped or uprooted and possibly block the roadways. Outages can also be expected in these situations.
Category Sustained Winds Description of Possible Hurricane Wind Impact
3 (Major) 111-129 mph 96-112 kt 178-208 km/h Devastating damage will occur: Well-built framed homes may incur major damage or removal of roof decking and gable ends. Many trees will be blown down with expected road blockages. Electricity and water might also be unavailable after the passing of the storm.
Category Sustained Winds Description of Possible Hurricane Wind Impact
4 (Major) 130-156 mph 113-136 kt 209-251 km/h
Catastrophic damage will occur: Well-built framed homes can sustain severe damage with loss of most of the roof structure and/or some exterior walls. Utility poles and trees will be downed. Fallen trees and power poles will isolate residential areas.
CategorySustained WindsDescription of Possible Hurricane Wind Impact
5
(Major)		157 mph or higher
137 kt or higher
252 km/h or higher		Catastrophic damage will occur: A high percentage of framed homes will be destroyed, with total roof failure and wall collapse. Fallen trees and power poles will isolate residential areas. Power, water and internet outages may last a while.