Stay Ahead with Tropical Weather Forecasts

Watching The Skies has introduced a new tropical weather forecasting category: "I", which is simplified from "Impact Damage Likelihood."

Here's the scale, and how it works in accordance to tropical weather. I1 (Impact Damage likelihood of-) 1Minor impacts are possible. These typically occur with low-end hurricanes or tropical storms in areas where impacts are less likely. Few impacts are expected. I2 Scattered impacts are possible. These generally involve low to mid-end hurricanes in areas more prone to impacts, hence scattered effects may occur. I3 Widespread impacts are likely, with a few isolated major impacts possible. These scenarios usually involve mid-end hurricanes in prone areas or tropical storms in highly susceptible regions. I4 Widespread impacts, including some major impacts, are likely. These are typically associated with upper-end hurricanes or low-end hurricanes affecting very prone areas. I5 Numerous impacts are probable, and major impacts can be expected. These usually involve upper-end hurricanes or mid-end hurricanes striking highly prone areas. Definitions with examples:

Major impacts are categorized as those posing a danger to life and/or property.

Example: A strong hurricane impacting a prone area could result in widespread power outages, extreme temperatures with little nighttime relief, and significant flooding or storm surge. This situation might be rated as I4+, depending on the area's vulnerability. The reasoning includes potential communication difficulties due to power outages, travel challenges from flooding, and dangerous conditions from high temperatures without air conditioning. If these impacts are widespread and highly likely, an I5 rating would be warranted.

Impacts are any sort of impact, that are notable and can cause injuries, or conditions where injuries may occur.

Impacts include anything from minor issues like fallen tree limbs to power outages, minor to notable flooding, and other similar hazards. These impacts are generally not life-threatening but could cause isolated injuries.