History of Category 5 Hurricanes in the Atlantic Basin

Despite it being a quiet season thus far in the Atlantic basin, the year has already produced one monster Category 5 storm when Hurricane Erin roared to life in August. Here is a look at the history of some of the most infamous Category 5 storms.

What Defines a Category 5 Hurricane?

A Category 5 hurricane is the strongest storm as defined by the Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale. A storm needs to pack maximum sustained winds of 157 mph to achieve this rare status.

Hurricane Erin 2025 Joins a Deadly List

Hurricane Erin joined an elite list of Category 5 storms when it exploded on August 16 as it churned to the north of the Virgin Islands. Erin did not stay at this status for long, quickly weakening as it moved into cooler waters.