A tropical cyclone is classified as a hurricane or typhoon when it reaches which wind speed?

A tropical cyclone is classified as a hurricane or typhoon when it reaches a wind speed of 64 knots, which is approximately 74 miles per hour. This classification is significant because it indicates the system has strengthened to a point where it poses a substantial threat to life and property due to its intense winds. This specific threshold is universally recognized in meteorology for determining the level of a tropical cyclone, where below this speed, it is categorized as a tropical storm. Understanding this classification helps in preparedness and response strategies for affected regions, as the impact of such storms can be quite severe, leading to widespread damage and necessitating evacuation protocols. Recognizing the critical nature of this threshold underlines the importance of proper monitoring and timely reporting in weather forecasting.