Officials Warn EVs at Risk of Fire from Saltwater Exposure During Hurricane Helene

Electric vehicle owners in storm-affected areas are advised to move their cars to higher ground to avoid potential fires.

Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis urged EV owners to relocate their vehicles ahead of Hurricane Helene to prevent fire hazards.
Saltwater can cause electric vehicle batteries to short circuit, leading to potential fires even after floodwaters recede.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has been studying EV fire risks since Hurricane Sandy in 2012, but detailed statistics are lacking.
Previous hurricanes like Ian and Idalia saw multiple EV fires due to compromised batteries, highlighting the ongoing risk.
Carmakers recommend keeping EVs out of standing water and towing flooded vehicles away from structures until they can be inspected.