How is a hurricane classified?

A hurricane is classified primarily based on sustained wind speeds. The Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale is the most common system used, which categorizes hurricanes into five different levels, from Category 1 (least severe) to Category 5 (most severe), depending on the maximum sustained winds measured in miles per hour (mph).

The reason this classification is crucial is that sustained wind speeds are directly linked to the potential for damage and risk to safety. Each category reflects an increasing level of impact from wind damage, ranging from minor damage to complete destruction of structures at the higher levels.

While geographic location, rain intensity, and ocean temperature are related factors that can influence hurricane development and behavior, they do not define the classification of hurricanes as effectively as wind speed does. Geographic location may indicate where the storm is currently situated but does not give insight into its strength or intensity. Similarly, rain intensity can vary significantly and is not a standard measure of hurricane classification. Ocean temperature is relevant for hurricane formation and intensity, as warmer waters can fuel storms, but again, it does not serve as a classification criterion once a hurricane has formed. Thus, the classification method that focuses on sustained wind speeds provides the most critical information regarding the hurricane's strength and expected impact