From 1 to 5, understand how hurricanes are classified and the level of danger

Cyclones are frequent occurrences in the Northern Hemisphere, especially at this time of year. This Wednesday (9), the arrival of Milton, one of the strongest ever recorded in the Atlantic, is expected to progress through the Gulf of Mexico and reach the Florida coast. Milton reached Category 5 on Monday (7), with sustained winds of 290 km/h. It is the second highest typhoon to hit the region in less than two weeks. hurricane HelenIt had previously been carried out, killing 230 people in several states in the southeastern United States.

Period “Hurricane” Refers to tropical cyclones that form in the Atlantic and Northeast Pacific Oceans. In other parts of the world, these phenomena are given different names but maintain the same characteristics. For example, in the Northwest Pacific they are called typhoons, and in the South Pacific and Indian Ocean they are called hurricanes.

Size of hurricanes

Hurricane intensity is measured by size Saffir-SimpsonIt classifies storms into five categories based on wind speed and destructive potential. Hurricanes are considered category 3 or higher “big” Because of its high destructive power. However, even less severe ones can pose serious risks and require protective measures.

A Category 1 hurricane, with sustained winds of 119 to 153 km/h, can cause damage to roofs, trees and branches, as well as power outages. Category 2, with winds of 154 to 177 km/h, poses a greater risk of destruction that already affects doors and windows. From Category 3, with winds of 178 to 208 km/h, damage is severe, including blown roofs, downed trees and power poles. A Category 4, with winds of 209 to 251 km/h, destroys homes and makes affected areas uninhabitable for weeks or months. A Category 5 hurricane, like Milton, has sustained winds of 252 km/h and destroys virtually all structures, leaving areas without power and homes for extended periods of time.

Progress of Hurricane Milton

On Tuesday (8), millions of Florida residents began evacuating hazardous areas, causing major congestion on highways and running out of fuel at many gas stations. The exodus is one of the largest ever recorded in the state. Milton, one of the most powerful hurricanes ever documented, is forecast to hit the area today (9). President of the United States, Joe BidenHe warned that it might “Worst hurricane to hit Florida in 100 years”.

Initially, Milton was classified as a Category 5 on Monday (7), with winds reaching 290 km/h. On Tuesday, the storm weakened to a Category 4 with sustained winds of 265 km/h, but by the end of the day it had re-intensified and was reclassified as a Category 5. Officials, including the president, asked all residents. Vulnerable areas leave the area immediately.