The truth surrounding electric vehicle fires and their potential risks during hurricanes has become a hot topic in Florida, especially as Hurricanes Helene and Milton slashed through the state.
Some headlines seemed to shout warnings about electric vehicles (EVs) after being breached by storm surges or floods; they described them as "ticking time bombs" as saltwater came rushing ashore. But missing from the narrative are the unique benefits these vehicles can provide during extreme weather events. With clean energy on the rise and efficient evacuation solutions, EVs may be more than just targets for fearmongering.
Florida's chief fire marshal, Jimmy Patronis, raised alarms about EVs and their susceptibility to fires after exposure to saltwater. “If you have one of these vehicles, including scooters, hoverboards, or golf carts, and they’ve been compromised by flooding, please unplug and move them to safety," he advised. His comments come amid reports of numerous fires attributed to lithium-ion batteries following Hurricane Helene, with authorities claiming at least 50 fires, 11 of which involved EVs.
But hold on—it's worth noting here the raw numbers. Standard gasoline-powered cars have significantly higher fire incidents compared to EVs, with gas vehicles averaging 1,529 fires per 100,000 sold, as opposed to just 25 for electric ones, based on recent studies. It's also been pointed out by experts like Thomas Barth, chief of the National Transportation Safety Board’s special investigations branch, "It's not super common," referring to fires caused by flooded EVs.
A likely reason for this heightened fear is the complexity of lithium-ion batteries and the potential for catastrophic failures when exposed to salty floodwaters. Saltwater can breach the water-resistant architecture of these batteries, causing short circuits. If one cell overheats, it can trigger thermal runaway, sparking fire. But does this mean all hope is lost for EVs when hurricanes loom? Not quite.
Fascinatingly, EVs offer distinct advantages for owners during extreme weather events. For one, the charging infrastructure is becoming more prevalent. Florida ranks as one of the national leaders with its extensive EV charging stations. "When lines to fill up at gas stations stretch for blocks before the storm, it’s refreshing to know we can just plug our EVs and have them charged well before the hurricane strikes," remarked Jennifer Rennicks, a coalitional partner at the World Resources Institute.
For those choosing to stay put during storms, it’s possible to reduce the vehicle's charge to around 20-30% to mitigate risks. This can minimize energy present to cause overheating. Keeping the car parked more than 50 feet from flammable structures, such as homes, ensures added safety. Plus, the ability to recharge at home via standard outlets enhances convenience.
This potentially lifesaving flexibility can make all the difference. For example, Rennicks shared how she was able to charge her EV and travel safely amid the panic for gas during the storm. “We had zero issues finding charging stations. Meanwhile, the gas lines were everywhere and some stations were even selling contaminated fuel,” she recounted. This is not just theory; these reports emerged vividly during Hurricane Idalia when gas shortages were rampant.
Another reflection of the need for preparedness came from Carrie Brown, whose family was affected when power was knocked out. “Our EV became our lifeline,” she said, explaining how charging at home allowed them to store energy and even share it with neighbors when needed. "Imagine if we had been stuck scavenging for gas instead?" she mused.
Still, concerns are valid, especially for the authorities managing safety. After the storms, Captiva Island Fire Control District expressed strong unease with submerged vehicles, pinpointing EV batteries as major fire hazards if compromised due to flooding.
Residents were encouraged to fill out forms detailing the condition of their EVs so professionals could properly assess fire risks. Such measures were not just proactive but necessary to prevent potential catastrophes. Harris, another local, noted, "It's clear the risks can escalate quickly if we don’t follow the guidelines.”
How can officials assist EV owners going forward? One recommendation is clear communication about EV safety to purchasers living within storm-prone zones or evacuation areas. Educators are calling for manufacturers to alert consumers to positions during floods and the appropriate steps to take with EVs.
Another good practice for EV owners includes familiarizing themselves with fire suppression techniques specific to lithium-ion battery fires. Firefighters must know how to navigate EV fires uniquely, as the strategies from traditional combustion engine fires don’t always apply. Local fire departments have begun to offer targeted training, realizing the rising adoption of EVs means revisiting established safety protocols.
Florida is setting the standards for how to prepare for disasters with electric vehicles taking center stage. While enhanced caution is warranted with flooded EVs, increasing awareness of their emergency advantages could lead more folks to understand and embrace this technology as allies, not threats.
Given the climate risks and changing energy sources at stake, it’s time to reshape the narrative surrounding EVs as we face future storms. Instead of focusing solely on their vulnerabilities, perhaps we should be highlighting how they can serve to support communities before, during, and after the storms.
