Nat-Cat 101

Saffir-Simpson Scale Hurricanes are measured on the Saffir-Simpson wind scale. This was introduced to help scale and assess the likely damage from a hurricane. The categories run from 1 - 5. These categories are based on sustained wind speed. The sustained winds are the average winds over a period of one minute. Although wind speed can far exceed the 157mph (Cat 5). Such as Hurricane Irma, which reached 185 mph. No Category 6 exists on the scale as it is agreed that any wind speed in Category 5 reflex near total destruction. So would have no practical benefit.

Tropical Cyclone Locations Tropical Cyclones occur in various locations around the World. When they exceed 74 mph, although they have the same characteristics they fall under different naming classifications depending on the location. The Map below show the region of each classification. ​ Throughout the year there is increased activity during certain months. Which are known as seasons. The seasons change depending on the region. Hurricanes - Increase between June to November Typhoons - Increase between May to October Cyclones - Increase between November to Ma

A brief overview of the variations between hurricane diameters . From Tropical Storm Marco; the smallest recorded hurricane to Typhoon Tip the largest ever recorded hurricane. Size of the storm is based on the diameter only. - Data sourced from 'Reigarw Comparisons'.