What wind speed defines a Category 5 hurricane with catastrophic damage?

What wind speed defines a Category 5 hurricane with catastrophic damage?

• A. 130 mph or higher
• B. 157 mph or higher
• C. 111 mph or higher
• D. 140 mph or higher

Answer: (B)

On the Saffir-Simpson scale, each hurricane category is defined by sustained wind speeds. A Category 5 hurricane is the highest level and means catastrophic damage. The threshold for this category is sustained winds of 157 mph or higher. This specific cut-off separates Category 5 from Category 4, which ranges from 130 to 156 mph, and from lower categories that start at 111 mph and below. Remember, sustained winds are averaged over a 1-minute period (not gusts, which can be higher) and are measured at a standard height above the surface. So the defining wind speed for Category 5 is 157 mph or higher.