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Town of Bluffton

Storm Definitions


Hurricane Watch

Hurricane conditions pose a possible threat to your area, usually within 36 hours. 

 

Hurricane Warning

Hurricane conditions are expected in your area within 24 hours.

 

Storm Categories

Category 1 - Winds 74-95 mph

  • Minimal structural damage
  • Mobile homes at risk
  • Power lines, signs and tree branches blown down
  • Storm surge - 4 to 5 ft.

Category 2 - Winds 96-110 mph

  • Moderate structural damage to walls, roofs and windows
  • Mobile homes at greater risk
  • Large signs and tree branches blown down
  • Storm surge - 6 to 8 ft.

Category 3 - Winds 111-130 mph

  • Extensive structural damage to walls, roofs and windows
  • Trees blown down
  • Storm surge 9 to 12 ft.

Category 4 - Winds 131-155 mph

  • Extreme damage to structures and roofs
  • Trees uprooted
  • Storm surge 13-18 ft.

Category 5 - Winds in excess of 155 mph

  • Catastrophic damage
  • Structures destroyed
  • Storm surge - 18 ft. or higher