What scale is primarily used to classify hurricanes by their wind speeds?

The Saffir-Simpson Scale is the correct choice for classifying hurricanes based on their wind speeds. This scale categorizes hurricanes into five different levels, ranging from Category 1 to Category 5, with each category indicating an increase in wind speed and potential damage associated with it. Specifically, the scale quantifies wind speeds, with a Category 1 hurricane having sustained winds of 74-95 mph and a Category 5 hurricane exceeding 157 mph.

Understanding this classification is essential for anticipating the severity of storm impacts, guiding preparedness, and responding effectively to hurricane threats. In contrast, the other scales mentioned serve different purposes: the Beaufort Scale measures wind forces and their effects on land and sea, the Fujita Scale assesses tornado damage based on structural impacts, and the Richter Scale measures the magnitude of earthquakes. Each of these is tailored to specific weather phenomena, making the Saffir-Simpson Scale unique in its focus on the characteristics of hurricanes.