Hurricanes are unique: each storm has different characteristics. Therefore, scientists have derived a classification system for categorizing storms depending on sustained windspeed and central pressure. In this Guide, these categories were used to choose the worst storm orientation that could affect each particular coastal zone. These categories do not include the tropical disturbances and tropical storms which can also cause extensive flooding and gales along coastal areas. This Saffir-Simpson Scale classifies hurricanes as below:

Category 1: Hurricane has poorly organized spiral cloud bands, normally along the northern and eastern quadrants of the storm. The center of the hurricane is usually ill-defined with a broad cloud mass surrounding it. Upon striking the coast, a Category One storm's primary damage will be to shrubbery, trees, foliage, signs, unanchored mobile homes, and piers.

Category 2: Hurricane has well-defined spiral cloud bands along all but the lower quadrant of the storm. The spiral bands define the center within the central cloud mass. Winds can cause considerable damage to shrubbery and tree foliage. Major damage can be expected to exposed mobile homes and piers.

Category 3: Hurricane has concentrated spiral cloud bands along all quadrants of the storm. The eye of the hurricane will become visible with an irregular shape within the central cloud mass. As the storm strikes the coast, large trees and power lines will be blown down. Mobile homes can be completely destroyed, with some structural damage to small buildings, including piers. Large structures near the coast will be damaged by waves pounding against them with floating debris.

Category 4: Hurricane has highly concentrated spiral cloud bands around the entire storm with a few bands further away from the central cloud system. The hurricane eye will be very well-defined. Similar to the destruction of a Category 3 storm, a Category 4 hurricane will destroy roofs on houses and down telephone and power lines. Major flooding will occur in the lower floors of many coastal structures.

Category 5: Hurricane contains highly concentrated spiral bands within the major cloud system and also further away from the system. The eye of the hurricane becomes circular and slightly larger. Upon striking the coast, this hurricane will blow down all trees, shrubbery, signs and power lines. Roofs on many residences and buildings will be completely destroyed. Small buildings will collapse. Major flood damage will occur to the lower floors of all structures less than 15 feet above mean sea level within 500 yards ofshore.