What are the windspeed classifications for Tropical Depression, Tropical Storm, and Hurricane?

The classification of windspeed for Tropical Depression, Tropical Storm, and Hurricane is specifically defined by the National Hurricane Center. A Tropical Depression is characterized by sustained winds of up to 34 knots (about 39 mph). When the winds increase to between 35 knots (approximately 40 mph) and 64 knots (about 74 mph), the system is then classified as a Tropical Storm. Once the sustained winds exceed 64 knots, the system is categorized as a Hurricane.

This classification system is important for meteorologists, emergency management, and aviation dispatch due to the safety implications and operational considerations that vary significantly with each category of storm.

The other choices do not accurately fit the established criteria used by meteorological organizations and would result in confusion or misinformation, particularly in the context of readiness and response to severe weather events.