Definition:
From the National Hurricane Center: The Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Scale is a 1-5 rating based on the hurricane's present intensity. This is used to give an estimate of the potential property damage and flooding expected along the coast from a hurricane landfall. Wind speed is the determining factor in the scale, as storm surge values are highly dependent on the slope of the continental shelf and the shape of the coastline, in the landfall region.
More information about the Saffir-Simpson Scale:
Also Known As: Hurricane Category Scale
Examples:
The Saffir-Simpson Scale rates the hurricane as a Category Five hurricane.