D
Below is a question with multiple-choice answers. Choose the correct option based on your reasoning.

### Question:
Meteorologists categorize hurricanes based on the Saffir-Simpson scale. The scale measures the intensity and destructive potential of hurricanes. Which factor has the most significant effect on the strength of a hurricane?

### Choices:
A. the initial speed of a hurricane
B. the direction that the hurricane rotates
C. the number of hurricanes that form in a year
D. the temperature of the water below the hurricane

### Answer:
