Hurricane force winds are winds that are either being observed or are predicted to occur with sustained winds or frequent gusts of 64 knots (118 km/h, 74 mph) or greater. These winds must not be directly associated with a tropical cyclone, or a hurricane warning will be issued. If winds are lighter than 64 knots, a storm warning or gale warning will be issued. The Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale is a 1 to 5 rating based only on a hurricanes maximum sustained wind speed, and it estimates potential property damage. Hurricanes rated Category 3 and higher are known as major hurricanes and can cause devastating to catastrophic wind damage and significant loss of life simply due to the strength of their winds. The scale does not take into account other potentially deadly hazards such as storm surge, rainfall flooding, and tornadoes. The following are the wind speeds and types of damage due to hurricane winds according to the Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale:

• Category 1: Winds 74-95 mph (64-82 kt or 119-153 km/hr). Very dangerous winds will produce some damage: Well-constructed frame homes could have damage to roof, shingles, vinyl siding, and gutters. Large branches of trees will snap and shallowly rooted trees may be toppled. Extensive damage to power lines and poles likely will result in power outages that could last a few to several days.

• Category 2: Winds 96-110 mph (83-95 kt or 154-177 km/hr). Extremely dangerous winds will cause extensive damage: Well-constructed frame homes could sustain major roof and siding damage. Many shallowly rooted trees will be snapped or uprooted and block numerous roads. Near-total power loss is expected with outages that could last from several days to weeks.

• Category 3: Winds 111-129 mph (96-112 kt or 178-208 km/hr). Devastating damage will occur: Well-built framed homes may incur major damage or removal of roof decking and gable ends. Many trees will be snapped or uprooted, blocking numerous roads. Electricity and water will be unavailable for several days to weeks after the storm passes.

• Category 4: Winds 130-156 mph (113-136 kt or 209-251 km/hr). 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. Most trees will be snapped or uprooted and power poles downed. Fallen trees and power poles will isolate residential areas. Power outages will last weeks to possibly months. Most of the area will be uninhabitable for weeks or months.

• Category 5: Winds 157 mph and up (137 kt or 252 km/hr 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 outages will last for weeks to possibly months. Most of the area will be uninhabitable for weeks or months.

It is important to note that all winds are using the U.S. 1-minute average.