What is the impact of climate change on Hurricane Melissa?

Hurricane Melissa, a Category 5 storm that devastated Jamaica and Cuba, nearly reached the proposed threshold for a new Category 6 classification due to the effects of climate change.

How have recent hurricanes compared to the Saffir-Simpson scale?

Five tropical cyclones since 2013 would have been deemed Category 6 hurricanes if such a classification existed, indicating the current scale may no longer adequately reflect the growing threat.

What do experts propose to address the increasing hurricane intensity?

Some experts argue that adding a Category 6 to the Saffir-Simpson scale is necessary to recognize the escalating risks posed by these supercharged storms, while others are hesitant to make changes.

Home / Weather / Supercharged Hurricanes Redefine Storm Severity: The Rise of Category 6

Supercharged Hurricanes Redefine Storm Severity: The Rise of Category 6

31 Oct

•

Summary

Hurricanes now exceed Category 5, with 5 storms since 2013 reaching potential Category 6 levels
Hurricane Melissa devastated Jamaica and Cuba, nearly reaching Category 6 status
Experts say climate change is making hurricanes stronger, faster, and more life-threatening

Supercharged Hurricanes Redefine Storm Severity: The Rise of Category 6

As of October 31st, 2025, the impact of climate change on hurricane intensity has become undeniable. Storms like Hurricane Melissa, which recently battered Jamaica and Cuba, are pushing the limits of the existing Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale, leading experts to consider the need for a new Category 6 classification.

Melissa, a Category 5 storm, came dangerously close to reaching the proposed threshold for a Category 6 hurricane, with maximum sustained winds of 185 miles per hour. Climatologist Dr. Michael Mann explains that five tropical cyclones since 2013 would have been deemed Category 6 if such a classification existed.