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The Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Scale is used to rate a hurricane's intensity.  It is useful in estimating the flooding and property damage that may occur.
 A Category One Hurricane has winds of 74-95 mph.  This is equivalent to 64-82 kt or 119-153 km/hr.
 
 A Category Two Hurricane has winds of 96-110 mph.  This is equivalent to 83-95 kt or 154-177 km/hr.
 
 A Category Three Hurricane has winds of 111-130 mph.  This is equivalent to 96-113 kt or 178-209 km/hr.
 
 A Category Four Hurricane has winds of 131-155 mph.  This is equivalent to 114-135 kt or 210-249 km/hr.
 
 A Category Five Hurricane has winds of greater than 155 mph or 135 kt or 249 km/hr.
 
 On this date, Hurricane Frances is approaching Florida.  Frances was a Category Four Hurricane yesterday but has weakened slightly to a Category Three overnight.  Earlier forecasts had mentioned the possibility that Frances would strengthen to a Category Five Hurricane before landfall.  Strengthening during the warmer daylight hours today may still occur.
 
 A Hurricane Warning is in effect for the eastern Florida coast.  Hurricane force winds are expected within twenty-four hours.  PREPARATIONS TO PROTECT LIFE AND PROPERTY SHOULD BE RUSHED TO COMPLETION.
 
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