Hurricane Milton, a Category 3 storm, made landfall on Florida’s west coast, raising concerns about potential electric vehicle (EV) fires caused by saltwater exposure. This concern stems from previous incidents during Hurricane Helene, where 48 lithium-ion battery fires were reported, including 11 involving EVs. The fire marshal, Jimmy Patronis, issued a warning emphasizing the need to move EVs and other lithium-ion battery-powered devices away from flood-prone areas, urging residents and first responders to be vigilant.

Lithium-Ion Battery Fires: A Looming Threat

Lithium-ion batteries, commonly found in EVs, scooters, hoverboards, and other devices, pose a significant fire hazard when exposed to saltwater. The interaction between saltwater and the battery’s flammable liquid electrolyte can trigger a chain reaction, potentially leading to a fire even hours or weeks after submersion.

Why Saltwater Makes EVs a Fire Risk

• Electrolyte Reaction: The saltwater reacts with the lithium-ion battery’s liquid electrolyte, leading to an exothermic reaction that generates heat.
• Short Circuit: The reaction can cause internal short circuits within the battery, further increasing the risk of fire.
• Corrosion: Saltwater corrodes battery components, compromising their structural integrity and increasing the likelihood of failure.

Fire Prevention and Response Measures

• Relocate EVs and Lithium-Ion Devices: Moving these devices to higher ground or safe locations away from potential flood zones is crucial to minimize the risk of water damage.
• Unplug Devices: Unplugging EVs and other lithium-ion devices prior to a storm can help prevent further complications, especially if floodwater reaches them.
• Move Vehicles Away from Residences: After the storm, flooded EVs should be moved to safe locations away from homes to prevent potential fires from spreading to residences.
• Avoid Towing: Toeing a waterlogged EV can create instability and further exacerbate the risk of battery fires.

The Impact of Previous Hurricanes

• Hurricane Ian (2022): Estimates suggest 3,000 to 5,000 EVs sustained damage during Hurricane Ian, with 600 totaled and 36 catching fire.
• Hurricane Helene: The fire marshal’s statement cited 48 reported incidents of lithium-ion battery fires, highlighting the potential dangers of floodwater exposure.

Take Away Points

• Flooding poses a significant risk to EVs and other lithium-ion battery-powered devices.
• Moving these devices to higher ground and unplugging them prior to a storm is essential for safety.
• Saltwater damage to lithium-ion batteries can cause fires, even hours or weeks after the event.
• First responders should be extra cautious while dealing with waterlogged EVs due to the potential fire risk.
• Insurance companies and local authorities are actively working to raise awareness about this hazard and provide guidance to homeowners.