As hurricane season officially begins in Quintana Roo, authorities and residents are taking necessary precautions to prepare for potential weather events. In addition to stocking emergency supplies, citizens have been informed about the Saffir-Simpson Scale, a tool used to classify tropical cyclones based on wind intensity.
Developed in the late 1960s by engineer Herbert Saffir, this scale provides a critical framework for understanding the level of risk posed by hurricanes. The Cancún government has issued a warning, stating that knowing the information contained in the Saffir-Simpson Scale will help identify the severity of potential storms and allow residents to prepare accordingly.
According to forecasts, Quintana Roo can expect between seven and nine tropical storms this year, including three to four Category 1 and 2 hurricanes. Additionally, there may be three to four hurricanes classified as Categories 3, 4, or 5. These categories are defined by wind speeds ranging from 119 kilometers per hour (Category 1) to 251 kilometers per hour (Category 5).
Category 1 storms can cause minor damage to trees and mobile homes, while Category 2 storms may bring downed trees and partial destruction of roofs and windows. Category 3 storms can result in significant property damage, including the destruction of mobile homes and major flooding.
Category 4 storms pose an even greater threat, with wind speeds capable of uprooting trees and causing severe damage to home structures. Finally, Category 5 storms are the most destructive, with wind speeds that can lead to widespread power outages, collapsed buildings, and life-threatening flooding.
While the exact number of cyclones or hurricanes expected to hit Quintana Roo in 2025 is unclear, between 17 and 21 tropical storms, hurricanes, or cyclones are predicted. Authorities are urging residents to maintain necessary precautions, including staying informed about weather updates and having emergency plans in place.
The Saffir-Simpson Scale serves as a valuable tool for individuals to understand the severity of potential risks and take decisive action to ensure their safety.
Source: El Heraldo de Mexico
