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Hurricanes Helene and Milton in 2024 caused severe flooding, leading to damage worth billions across the Southeastern U.S.
Flooding, especially with saltwater, caused several electric vehicles (EVs) and lithium-ion battery-powered objects to catch fire, highlighting a new safety concern.
The Threat of Saltwater for Electric Vehicles
Saltwater can cause electrical short circuits and corrosion in lithium-ion batteries, leading to thermal runaway—a dangerous process where the battery catches fire.
Saltwater conducts electricity, worsening the risk of short circuits, overheating, and rapid corrosion inside the battery.
Batteries can start fires days after being exposed to saltwater, as residual electrical charge inside the battery can trigger dangerous reactions.
While EV batteries have waterproof seals, prolonged immersion, especially in saltwater, can still lead to battery damage and fires due to poor sealing or defects.
What EV Owners Should Know
EV owners should avoid flooding their vehicles, particularly with saltwater.
If an EV is submerged, treat it as a fire hazard, keep it away from other property, and contact the manufacturer for inspection.
Before floods, move vehicles to higher ground, and keep smaller battery-powered objects in safe places.
Do not charge or operate flooded EVs. It’s crucial to have a professional inspect them before moving or using the vehicle.
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