Hurricanes are categorized on the Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Scale based on their intensity. The Scale starts at 1, which is a minimal hurricane and ends at 5, is a very strong hurricane.
| Category | (km/h) | (mph) | (knots) | Storm Surge (ft) | Damage |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 119-153 | 74-95 | 64-82 | 4-5 | Minimal |
| 2 | 154-177 | 96-110 | 83-95 | 6-8 | Moderate |
| 3 | 178-208 | 111-129 | 96-112 | 9-12 | Extensive |
| 4 | 209-251 | 130-156 | 113-136 | 13-18 | Extreme |
| 5 | >252 | >157 | >137 | >19 | Catastrophic |
- Minimal: damage primarily to shrubbery, trees, and foliage; some coastal flooding and possible minor damage to boats.
- Moderate: considerable damage to trees; some roof, window and door damage; coastal flooding requiring evacuation; damage to boats.
- Extensive: large trees were blown down; structural damage to small buildings; serious flooding near the coast; evacuation necessary; coastal structures damaged or destroyed.
- Extreme: extensive destruction of trees and buildings; large-scale flooding; major damage to low structures within about 450m of shore; possible evacuation from the low ground within eight to 16km of the shore.
- Catastrophic: trees down; extensive building damage; the coastal area below 3m flooded up to 10km inland; major damages to coastal structures; beaches eroded; massive evacuation near the coast. Damage primarily to shrubbery, trees, and foliage; some coastal flooding and possible minor damage to boats.
Source: https://www.odpem.org.jm/
