What category does Hurricane Milton belong to and how are hurricanes categorized?

Hurricane Milton, which will hit Florida, is expected to be one of the most devastating storms to hit the United States. This deadly storm came just a week after Hurricane Helene wreaked havoc in the state and claimed over 230 lives.

Hurricane Milton originated in the Gulf of Mexico and is classified as a Category 5 storm because it increased in intensity within a few hours. The storm is predicted to create a life-threatening situation in the area along its path. Millions of people are ordered to evacuate the region.

Hurricanes are tropical storms that form over tropical or subtropical waters. These are low-pressure areas with thunderstorm activity that gain their intensity from warm sea water. They result in strong surface winds with circular motion and can bring extreme weather conditions to nearby land.

Hurricanes are classified according to the Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale, which measures a storm’s intensity based on its sustained wind speed. The scale also estimates the damage caused by hurricanes by category.

According to the National Weather Service (NWS), hurricanes are categorized as follows:

Category one hurricane: These hurricanes have wind speeds of 70-90 mph (119-153 km/h) and cause some damage. They can result in power outages lasting a few to several days, according to the NWS.

Category two hurricane: These hurricanes have wind speeds of 96-110 mph (154-177 km/h) and can cause extensive damage due to damaging winds. These storms can result in a near-total power outage.

Category three hurricane: Wind speeds for hurricanes in this category are 111-129 miles per hour (km/h) and can cause devastating damage and the uprooting of many trees. They would also cause power and water outages.

Category four hurricane: These hurricanes can have wind speeds of up to 125-155 mph (209-251 km/h). “Catastrophic damage” will occur during these storms, with many homes suffering severe damage. They lead to power outages lasting weeks or months and make the place uninhabitable for some time.

Category five hurricane: The final category classifies storms with wind speeds of 157 mph or more (252 km/h or more). Due to these storms, “catastrophic damage” will occur, with a high percentage of frame houses destroyed and roofs and walls collapsing. They will also cause the area to remain uninhabitable for weeks or months.

(With contributions from agencies)