Cyclone Intensity Calculator: Understanding Tropical Cyclone Strength

What is Cyclone Intensity?

Cyclone intensity refers to the strength of a tropical cyclone, which is typically measured by its maximum sustained wind speeds and minimum central pressure. The intensity of a cyclone determines its potential for damage and is crucial for issuing appropriate warnings and preparing for its impact.

Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale

The Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale is the most commonly used system for categorizing the intensity of tropical cyclones in the Atlantic and Eastern Pacific basins. It uses maximum sustained wind speeds to classify cyclones into five categories:

• Category 1: 74-95 mph (119-153 km/h)
• Category 2: 96-110 mph (154-177 km/h)
• Category 3: 111-129 mph (178-208 km/h)
• Category 4: 130-156 mph (209-251 km/h)
• Category 5: ≥ 157 mph (≥ 252 km/h)

Calculation Steps

1. Measure or obtain the maximum sustained wind speed of the cyclone.
2. Convert the wind speed to mph if necessary.
3. Compare the wind speed to the Saffir-Simpson scale ranges.
4. Determine the category based on where the wind speed falls within these ranges.

Example and Visual Representation

Let's categorize a cyclone with:

• Maximum Sustained Wind Speed: 135 mph
• Central Pressure: 950 mb

Using the Saffir-Simpson scale:

135 mph falls within the range of 130-156 mph, so this is a Category 4 hurricane.

This diagram illustrates a Category 4 hurricane. The red circle represents the eye of the hurricane, surrounded by the eyewall (white spiral) where the strongest winds are found. The blue area represents the extent of the hurricane's circulation.