Hurricane Ida was a Category 4 major hurricane at its peak intensity. It was a powerful and destructive tropical cyclone that impacted parts of the Caribbean and the United States in late August and early September 2021.
Understanding Hurricane Categories
Hurricanes are classified using the Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale (SSHWS), which categorizes storms based on their sustained wind speeds. A "major hurricane" refers to storms reaching Category 3 or higher, indicating a significant potential for devastating damage.
Here's a summary of Hurricane Ida's key meteorological characteristics:
| Characteristic | Detail |
|---|---|
| Type | Major Hurricane |
| Peak Category | Category 4 |
| Highest Sustained Winds | 150 mph (240 km/h) |
| Dissipation Date | September 5, 2021 |
A Category 4 hurricane on the Saffir-Simpson scale is characterized by sustained winds ranging from 130–156 mph (209–251 km/h). Storms of this magnitude can cause catastrophic damage, including:
- Severe structural damage to well-built homes.
- Widespread power outages lasting weeks or even months.
- Trees snapped or uprooted, leading to impassable roads.
- Extensive damage to infrastructure and the environment.
Ida's classification as a Category 4 major hurricane underscores its extreme strength and the severe impact it had on affected regions.
