In the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, authorities in Florida have issued a dire warning regarding the potential dangers posed by electric vehicles (EVs) that were exposed to saltwater flooding.
The hurricane, which caused extensive flooding across parts of the state, has left many electric cars submerged in saltwater—a condition that can lead to catastrophic consequences, including fires and explosions.
Pinellas County officials took to social media to inform the public about the unique risks associated with electric vehicles impacted by saltwater. In a statement, the county warned, “Electric Vehicles that have been flooded in saltwater can catch fire.”
This warning underscores the critical need for residents to remain vigilant, especially those who evacuated and left behind EVs or electric golf carts in garages or under buildings that may now be inaccessible due to the flooding.
The post further urged residents who evacuated to contact local authorities if they suspect their vehicles have been exposed to floodwaters. “If you evacuated and left an electric vehicle or golf cart in your garage or under a building and you are not able to get to it or move it, we want you to let us know,” the statement read.
This warning was accompanied by a video showing an electric car that had been submerged in saltwater igniting in a garage. The footage clearly demonstrated the potential hazards of saltwater exposure for electric vehicles, which can cause serious fires.
Electric Vehicles that have been flooded in saltwater can catch fire. If you evacuated and left an electric vehicle or golf cart in your garage or under a building and you are not able to get to it or move it, we want you to let us know. /1 pic.twitter.com/dpfiXRAGuR
— Pinellas County (@PinellasGov) September 28, 2024
The video posted by the county is a stark reminder of the dangers posed by flooded EVs and the potential damage they can cause if not properly addressed.
Tom Barth of the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) provided insight into why these vehicles are at such risk when exposed to saltwater.
“If the saltwater is able to bridge the gap between the positive and negative terminals of the battery, then it can cause a short circuit,” Barth explained. This short circuit can trigger a chemical reaction within the lithium-ion batteries used in electric vehicles, leading to overheating, fires, or even explosions.
Lithium-ion batteries are especially vulnerable to damage when exposed to saltwater because of their high energy density and sensitivity to electrical shorts. Once the batteries are compromised, fires can ignite that are extremely difficult to extinguish. In fact, these types of fires are known to burn hotter and longer than those involving conventional gasoline-powered vehicles.
Reports have already surfaced of electric cars in Tampa and other areas affected by Hurricane Helene catching fire after being flooded with saltwater. Fox 4 News highlighted several incidents in which EVs, inundated by floodwaters, exploded and caused significant fire damage to nearby homes. These incidents have only intensified concerns among residents and officials alike.
Electric cars are an increasingly common sight in Florida, and as the state contends with rising sea levels and stronger hurricanes, the issue of saltwater damage to these vehicles has come to the forefront. Local authorities are now treating flooded electric cars as potential fire hazards, advising anyone who suspects their vehicle has been exposed to saltwater to contact emergency services immediately.
In a statement, Pinellas County officials emphasized the seriousness of the situation. “We want residents to be aware of the potential risks and to take all necessary precautions,” a spokesperson said. “If you’re unable to access your electric vehicle, or if it’s been submerged in water, do not attempt to move it yourself. Let emergency services handle it to avoid the risk of fire or explosion.”
The danger posed by saltwater-exposed electric vehicles has led officials to urge caution and quick action from both residents and emergency responders.
EV owners are being advised to stay away from any electric vehicle that has been submerged in floodwaters, as even a small amount of saltwater can damage the vehicle’s internal components and trigger a fire.
One of the main concerns is that these fires often occur hours or even days after the vehicles are exposed to water, making them unpredictable and difficult to manage. This delayed reaction can leave residents unaware of the potential danger lurking in their garages or driveways.
In the wake of Hurricane Helene, local emergency services have made it clear that they are prioritizing the safe removal and disposal of EVs that have been compromised by saltwater. Specially trained teams are being dispatched to handle vehicles at risk, ensuring that any potential fires can be quickly contained.
As electric vehicles become more prevalent across the U.S., especially in coastal areas prone to flooding, the risks associated with water damage to these vehicles must be addressed. The events following Hurricane Helene have brought this issue to light, prompting calls for greater awareness among EV owners about the potential hazards of water exposure.
While electric vehicles are generally safe, the combination of saltwater and lithium-ion batteries can create a highly dangerous situation.
Officials are now urging manufacturers, regulators, and emergency responders to develop more robust protocols to manage the risks associated with EVs in flood-prone regions.
For Florida residents, the message is clear: if your electric vehicle has been exposed to floodwaters, report it immediately and avoid trying to move it yourself. This simple precaution could prevent a devastating fire or explosion in the days following the storm.
