As Hurricane Helene leaves behind unfortunate destruction throughout the east of the United States, electric vehicle (EV) owners are being warned about a serious yet often overlooked danger, the risk of fires caused by saltwater flooding. Florida officials, including Governor Ron DeSantis, advised EV drivers to move their cars to higher ground last week in preparation for the storm. While fires related to electric vehicles are rare, the combination of saltwater and EV batteries can create hazardous conditions if preventive steps aren’t taken.
Unlike traditional gas-powered cars, electric vehicles rely on lithium-ion batteries that, under certain conditions, can catch fire. Saltwater, due to its ability to conduct electricity, poses a unique risk to these batteries, especially if the water manages to penetrate the protective seals designed to keep moisture out. Once inside, saltwater can create short circuits between the battery’s terminals, leading to overheating and potentially causing a dangerous phenomenon called thermal runaway.
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In simple terms, thermal runaway is when heat from a short circuit spreads through the battery cells, resulting in an uncontrollable chain reaction. In the case of saltwater exposure, even after floodwaters recede, the salt residue left behind can continue to pose a risk, making it essential for EV owners to have their vehicles inspected if they’ve been submerged.
The threat of saltwater-induced fires in EVs became particularly apparent during and after major storms in recent years. Following Hurricane Ian in 2022, which ravaged parts of Florida, up to 5,000 electric vehicles were compromised, with 36 confirmed fires. Similar incidents occurred after Hurricane Idalia, prompting further concern and investigations by both automakers and federal safety agencies.
It’s important to note that this risk seems to be specifically linked to saltwater flooding, not freshwater. For example, no significant issues were reported in California after heavy rainfall and freshwater flooding earlier this year. Saltwater’s unique ability to conduct electricity appears to be the driving factor behind these fire risks.
1. Move Your Vehicle to Higher Ground
The best way to prevent potential battery damage is to avoid floodwaters altogether. Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, along with safety officials, has stressed the importance of relocating EVs to areas less likely to flood. Parking your vehicle on elevated ground can significantly reduce the risk of it being submerged in saltwater.
2. Keep Your EV Charged Before Power Outages
Just like conventional car owners are advised to keep their gas tanks full before a storm, EV owners should ensure their vehicles are fully charged ahead of potential power outages. While charging options may be limited during and after a hurricane, this simple step can provide flexibility in case you need to evacuate or travel.
3. Post-Flood Safety Measures
If your EV does become submerged in water, safety doesn’t end once the floodwaters recede. Tesla and other automakers recommend towing your vehicle at least 50 feet away from any structures or flammable objects until a certified mechanic can inspect it. This precaution is critical because fires can occur long after the vehicle dries out, as salt residue may linger in the battery.
Although instances of EV fires caused by saltwater flooding are rare, they happen frequently enough for safety officials to take notice. Since Hurricane Sandy in 2012, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has been studying the phenomenon, but exact statistics remain hard to come by. However, with more EVs on the road today, the number of cases is expected to grow, especially in coastal areas prone to hurricanes and saltwater flooding.
As electric vehicles continue to gain popularity, the automotive industry is working to address safety concerns, including those related to flooding and battery integrity. The NHTSA is currently exploring updates to battery safety regulations aimed at reducing risks, particularly in high-risk flood zones. Additionally, carmakers have designed their battery packs with insulation and barriers to minimize moisture infiltration, though no system is foolproof, especially in extreme conditions like hurricanes.
