(SQAUK) — After Hurricane Helene passed through Florida, there have been reports of electric vehicles (EVs) catching fire after being submerged in saltwater. This has caused concern among residents and officials. The issue is related to the lithium-ion batteries used in EVs, which can short-circuit when exposed to saltwater. This can lead to a dangerous chain reaction called thermal runaway, resulting in overheating and, in some cases, spontaneous fires that may occur even days after the floodwaters have receded.
State officials urgently warn electric vehicle (EV) owners to move their cars to higher ground and have them inspected if submerged. There have been incidents of EVs catching fire in areas like Pinellas County, where vehicles trapped in standing water have ignited.
The main risk arises from the salt in seawater, which can conduct electricity and cause short circuits inside the battery packs. Similar problems were seen after previous hurricanes, such as Hurricane Ian in 2022, which resulted in fires in over 30 EVs. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) is investigating the issue to enhance EV safety standards for upcoming hurricane seasons.
