Water Category 3 (Black Water)

Category 3 water is grossly contaminated. It can carry sewage, ground floodwater, or water that has picked up chemicals, waste, or disease-causing organisms. The CDC and FEMA both warn that floodwater and sewage-contaminated water can carry harmful bacteria and other pathogens, so anyone near it should avoid direct contact and use protective gear during cleanup. Because of the health risk, a Category 3 loss usually calls for removing and discarding more of the affected material rather than trying to clean and save it.