What is a category 1 hurricane? What does this actually mean, and what kind of damage can this category of hurricane do? Below we provide all the details you need to know about category 1 hurricanes. This intent of this article is to help you better understand the storms that pose a risk to your home and family during hurricane season in Florida.
FAQs
Exactly what does a category 1 hurricane mean? According to the experts at the National Hurricane Center a category 1 hurricane is a storm classified as a 1 on the Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale. This scale is used to classify a hurricane’s maximum sustained wind speeds only. It does not factor in rain, flooding, etc. It is used to signal the potential for property damage.
Sustained wind speeds of 74 – 95 mph, according to the National Hurricane Center.
The Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale details the potential danger and damage of each category of storm. And according to the NOAA website, a category 1 storm involves “very dangerous winds” that “will produce some damage.”
Additionally, the Saffir-Simpson scale only considers wind speeds. It does not consider rain, storm surge, or flooding, etc. So if you live in a coastal area prone to flooding this should be considered as well.
According to the Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale on the NOAA website, a category 1 storm has the potential to cause damage to the roof, shingles, siding and gutters of a home. The winds can also cause damage to the branches of trees and power lines and electrical poles.
This will depend on the storm and your location. It is recommended to sign up for a storm alert system and following their recommendations. You can see more evacuation information at Know Your Zone.
Recent category 1 Atlantic storms in FL
The most recent category 1 Atlantic storm to hit Florida was Hermine in 2016.
How can you protect your home against a hurricane in Florida?
Living in Florida means protecting both your family and home from hurricanes. When it comes to hurricane protection you have options, such as hurricane shutters, storm panels and impact windows.
If you need more information you can learn more about all your hurricane protection options on the Eurex Shutters site. If you need window protection for your home, including anywhere in Southwest Florida then we would love to help.
