Naples recorded a record storm surge, breaking the record of 2017. The latest storm surge as of this publication was 6 feet and water is steadily rising. The previous record was set by hurricane Irma in 2017. The forecast calls for 8 to 12 feet of storm surge. The hurricane waters are flooding southern Florida homes. Florida officials are urging residents to shelter in place.
The Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale is a 1 to 5 rating based only on a hurricane’s maximum sustained wind speed. The scale does not take into account other potentially deadly hazards such as storm surge, rainfall flooding and tornadoes.
Category 1 hurricane (74-95 mph): Very dangerous winds will produce some damage
Well-constructed frame homes could have home damage to roofs, shingles, vinyl siding and gutters. Large branches of trees will snap, and shallowly rooted trees may be toppled. Extensive damage to power lines and poles likely will result in power outages that could last a few to several days.
Category 2 hurricane (96-110 mph): Extremely dangerous winds will cause extensive damage
More property damage will occur on well-constructed frame homes could sustain major roof and siding damage. Many shallowly rooted trees will be snapped or uprooted and block numerous roads. Near-total power loss is expected, with outages that could last from several days to weeks.
Category 3 hurricane (111-129 mph): Devastating damage will occur
Well-built framed homes may incur major damage or removal of roof decking and gable ends from the wind. Many trees will be snapped or uprooted, blocking numerous roads. Electricity and water will be unavailable for several days to weeks after the storm passes.
Category 4 hurricane (130-156 mph): Catastrophic damage will occur
Well-built framed homes can sustain severe damage, with loss of most of the roof structure and/or some exterior walls. Most trees will be snapped or uprooted and power poles downed. Fallen trees and power poles will isolate residential areas. Power outages will last weeks to possibly months. Most of the area will be uninhabitable for weeks or months.
Category 5 hurricane (157 mph or higher): Catastrophic damage will occur
The highest hurricane category – A large percentage of framed homes will be destroyed, with total roof failure and wall collapse. Fallen trees and power poles will isolate residential areas. Power outages will last for weeks to possibly months. Most of the area will be uninhabitable for weeks or months.
