According to the Saffir-Simpson damage scale the potential property damage and flooding from a storm of Haiyan’s strength (category 5) at landfall includes: Storm surge generally greater than 5.5 metres (18 feet) above normal. Complete roof failure on many residences and industrial buildings. Some complete building failures with small utility buildings blown over or away. All shrubs, trees, and signs blown down. Complete destruction of mobile homes. Severe and extensive window and door damage. Low-lying escape routes are cut by rising water 3-5 hours before arrival of the centre of the storm. Major damage to lower floors of all structures located less than 4.6 metres (15 feet) above sea level and within 460 metres (500 yards) of the shoreline. Massive evacuation of residential areas on low ground within 8-16 km miles (5-10 miles) of the shoreline may be required. There is also the potential for flooding further inland due to heavy rain.