Storm science tool

Hurricane Category Calculator

Determine hurricane category from sustained wind speed values.

Storm classification

What is hurricane category?

Hurricane categories classify storms based on sustained wind speeds. The Saffir-Simpson scale uses categories from 1 to 5.

Classification

Wind speed categories

Category= Sustained Wind Speed Range

Higher categories represent stronger sustained winds and greater potential impacts.

Applications

Uses of hurricane classification

This tool helps students learn meteorology, weather science, and hurricane classification systems.

Questions and answers

Calculator FAQ

How is hurricane category calculated?

Hurricane category is determined by comparing sustained wind speed with classification thresholds.

What scale is used for hurricane categories?

The Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale is commonly used to classify hurricanes.

Can this predict hurricane damage?

No. Damage depends on many factors including location, rainfall, storm surge, and building conditions.

What science concepts are used?

The calculator uses meteorology, wind speed measurement, and storm classification concepts.