What scale is used to classify the intensity of hurricanes?

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The Saffir-Simpson scale classifies category 1 to 5 hurricanes based on their maximum sustained wind speeds. A high category indicates increasing potential for wind damage, but does not summarize the entire hazard. The scale does not directly take into account precipitation, flooding, storm extent, or storm surge. A relatively low category cyclone can therefore cause a major disaster if it moves slowly or hits a vulnerable area. Official forecasts detail wind, rain, swell and flooding separately.