What category of water does surface water from raising rivers fall under?

Surface water from rising rivers is classified as Category 3 water. This classification indicates that the water is heavily contaminated and poses a significant health risk.

Category 3 water includes water from floodwaters, sewage, and other sources that can contain pathogenic microorganisms, chemicals, or toxins that can be harmful to human health. When rivers overflow, they can carry with them various pollutants and contaminants from their surroundings, including agricultural runoff, industrial waste, and debris, further heightening the health and safety risks associated with cleanup.

Understanding the categories of water is crucial for remediation professionals, as it directly affects the safety protocols and protective measures that must be taken during any water damage mitigation and cleanup efforts. Category 3 requires the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) and specific remediation procedures to ensure the safety of workers and occupants in the environment affected by the water intrusion.