Tropical Storms

What do people first think of when it comes to tropical storms? Hurricanes!

No matter where you live, tropical storms will affect you. However, they might leave a significant impact on you, your property, and your community depending if you live on or near a coast. Here is a quick overview about these storms, and then a variety of resources below that will help with tropical storm preparedness, response, recovery, live updates, FAQs, and more!

Hurricane at a Glance:

A Hurricane is a Tropical Cyclone. There are three classes of tropical cyclones: Tropical Depressions, Tropical Storms, and Hurricanes (or called Cyclones or Typhoons).

Tropical Depression:

Wind Speed: <39 mph

Tropical Storm:

Wind Speed: 39-73 mph


Category 1: 74-95 mph

Category 2: 96-110 mph

Category 3: 111-129 mph

Category 4: 130-156 mph

Category 5: 157< mph

Tropical Storm Resources:

NOAA National Hurricane Center


(FEMA) Hurricane Preparedness every step of the way


NOAA Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale


Weather Underground Tropical Cyclone Current Activity


CBS News What’s the Difference? Basic FAQs


American Red Cross Hurricane Preparedness and Recovery Tips