What category must a storm reach on the Saffir-Simpson scale to be considered major?

To be classified as a major storm, a hurricane must reach Category 3 on the Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale. This scale categorizes hurricanes based primarily on their sustained wind speeds, with Category 3 defined by winds ranging from 111 to 129 miles per hour. Hurricanes of this magnitude can cause significant damage, particularly due to the severity of their winds, and have the potential for widespread destruction in both urban and rural environments.

While Categories 4 and 5 are indeed more intense and associated with greater wind speeds, the designation of "major" specifically starts at Category 3, which indicates that even lower levels of intensity can result in severe impacts. Categories 2 and below are less likely to be considered major storms due to their lower wind thresholds and generally reduced potential for catastrophic damage.