Electric vehicles are at risk of catching fire if they come into contact with saltwater during floods, making it crucial for owners in hurricane-prone areas to take precautions to prevent potential hazards. Florida Governor Ron DeSantis recently advised electric vehicle owners to relocate their vehicles to higher ground before the arrival of Hurricane Helene. While occurrences of EV fires due to flooding are rare, several incidents have been reported in recent years, emphasizing the importance of safeguarding these vehicles during extreme weather conditions.
To minimize the likelihood of fires, individuals are advised to keep their electric vehicles out of standing water. Tesla also recommends avoiding submersion of their vehicles, and if unavoidable, they suggest towing the vehicle at least 50 feet away from any combustible materials until it can be inspected by a mechanic.
During a power outage, maintaining a fully charged electric vehicle provides flexibility and mobility. Despite the inability to charge during power cuts, EV owners are not in a worse position than conventional vehicle owners, as gas stations are also unable to function without electricity.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has been investigating incidents of EV fires post-flooding since Hurricane Sandy in 2012. The exact frequency of these events remains unknown. Hurricanes like Ian and Idalia saw electric vehicles compromised by floodwaters, leading to multiple fires. The presence of saltwater is a key factor in igniting EV fires, as salt can conduct electricity, posing a significant risk to the battery systems.
Electric vehicles powered by lithium-ion batteries are susceptible to fires if the batteries short circuit and overheat. Tom Barth of the National Transportation Safety Board explained that when heat spreads among different cells in the battery, it can trigger a chain reaction known as thermal runaway. Manufacturers implement design features to prevent such incidents, including insulation barriers between cells and moisture-resistant components in battery packs.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration is actively working to enhance battery safety standards for electric vehicles to mitigate risks associated with floods and fires. Ongoing research and improvements in battery technology aim to address these safety concerns and promote the resilience of electric vehicles in extreme weather scenarios.
