Electric Vehicle Owners Urged to Take Precautions Ahead of Hurricane Helene
As Hurricane Helene approaches, officials are warning electric vehicle (EV) owners to take necessary precautions to prevent potential fire hazards. The storm, which is expected to bring significant flooding and storm surges, poses a unique risk to electric vehicles that could be inundated with saltwater.
In a recent announcement, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis advised residents to move their electric vehicles to higher ground to mitigate the risks associated with flooding. While incidents of EVs catching fire due to water damage are relatively rare, there have been several notable cases following past hurricanes.
Electric vehicles, particularly those with lithium-ion batteries, can be susceptible to fire if they come into contact with saltwater. This risk has prompted manufacturers like Tesla to provide guidance for EV owners. Tesla recommends that if a vehicle does become submerged, it should be towed at least 50 feet away from any structures or flammable materials until a qualified mechanic can assess the situation.
In addition to moving vehicles to higher ground, EV owners are encouraged to keep their batteries charged in anticipation of potential power outages. Just as traditional vehicle owners are advised to keep their gas tanks full in case of emergencies, maintaining a charged battery can offer more flexibility during a storm. However, it is important to note that during power outages, charging stations may also be inoperable, limiting options for electric vehicle drivers.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has been investigating the correlation between flooding and EV fires since Hurricane Sandy struck in 2012. Despite ongoing research, comprehensive statistics on the frequency of such incidents remain scarce. However, notable incidents have been documented, such as after Hurricane Ian in 2022, where approximately 5,000 electric vehicles were compromised, leading to 36 reported fires.
Following Hurricane Idalia, which was less powerful than Ian, there were additional reports of electric vehicle fires in Florida. Experts suggest that increased awareness among vehicle owners may have contributed to the lower number of incidents, as many took proactive measures to relocate their vehicles.
With Hurricane Helene expected to bring storm surges of up to 20 feet in some areas of northwestern Florida, officials are particularly concerned about the potential for flooding and subsequent fires. The risks associated with saltwater exposure to electric vehicle batteries underscore the need for preparedness among EV owners in hurricane-prone regions.
As the storm approaches, residents are reminded to stay informed about the latest weather updates and to follow safety recommendations from local authorities. Taking proactive steps now can help mitigate risks and ensure the safety of both residents and their vehicles during severe weather events.
