The words 'hurricane' and 'typhoon' are often used interchangeably. They do, however, describe

The words "hurricane" and "typhoon" are often used interchangeably. They do, however, describe regionally specific phenomena, which are identical. Both are simply manifestations of a strong tropical cyclone, which is a generic term for a non-frontal, low-pressure system over tropical or subtropical waters, associated with thunderstorm activity and vigorous surface wind patterns. P2: Tropical depressions are precursors of tropical cyclones but they have maximum sustained surface winds of less than 39 miles per hour (mph). Above this speed, the phenomenon is called a tropical storm and is assigned a name. Above 74 mph, it is called a hurricane, if occurring in the North Atlantic Ocean, the Northeast Pacific Ocean east of the dateline or the South Pacific Ocean east of 160E. Typhoon refers to activity that occurs in the Southwest Pacific Ocean west of the dateline. P3: Hurricanes receive the most publicity as they occur in the Atlantic Basin and affect the United States or neighbouring regions. They are classified according to wind strength using the SaffirSimpson Hurricane Scale, which uses five categories. Category 1 has winds between 74-95 mph which means that it is unlikely to cause real damage to buildings, leads to some coastal flooding and minor pier damage. Category 2 (winds between 96 and 110 mph) will cause damage to roofs, doors and windows. Small craft may break their moorings and some trees will be blown over. From Category 3 up to Category 5, structural damage will occur. Category 3 is highly likely to cause damage to smaller houses but could significantly escalate if large trees are blown over. Flooding deep inland is usual. Category 4 will see some complete roof structure failure while Category 5 hurricanes (winds in excess of 156 mph) will cause the removal of roofs from many buildings, both residential and industrial. Flooding will be very severe, causing major damage to lower floors of all structures near the shoreline. It is, also, likely that extensive evacuation of residential areas will result. It should be remembered that lower category winds might cause damage far above their category description, depending on what lies in their way and the particular hazards they bring.