A Tesla vehicle caught fire inside a flooded garage in Florida after being submerged in saltwater from Hurricane Helene. The incident has raised concerns about the risks electric vehicles (EVs) face in flood conditions, particularly when exposed to saltwater.
According to surveillance footage, the fire started beneath the car and quickly spread, engulfing the entire vehicle in flames within minutes. Local officials released the footage to alert electric car owners about the potential dangers of saltwater flooding.
The Risks of Saltwater Flooding for Electric Vehicles
Saltwater flooding can be particularly hazardous for electric vehicles because it can lead to electrical shorts and fires. In this case, the saltwater from Hurricane Helene likely damaged the Tesla’s battery or electrical components, causing it to catch fire. It’s important to note that this risk isn’t exclusive to Tesla; any electric vehicle exposed to saltwater may be at risk.
Officials have issued a warning to all EV owners in flood-prone areas, advising them not to park their electric vehicles in garages that have been flooded, as it could lead to similar dangerous situations.
Safety Recommendations for EV Owners
In light of the incident, officials are urging EV owners to take extra precautions following floods. Here are some key recommendations:
- Avoid parking EVs in flooded areas: Even after the floodwaters recede, the residual moisture and salt can cause severe damage to the vehicle’s electrical systems.
- Get your EV inspected: Before driving your electric vehicle after a flood, it’s essential to have it thoroughly inspected at a dealership or by a certified technician. This ensures the car is safe to operate and that there are no underlying issues caused by water exposure.
- Stay informed: If you live in a flood-prone area, keep an eye out for any warnings or updates from local officials and your vehicle manufacturer. They may provide important guidelines on how to keep your EV safe during extreme weather conditions.
Video Footage Highlights the Danger
The dramatic footage of the Tesla catching fire was shared on social media as a warning to electric car owners. You can view the video on Twitter here, which shows just how quickly the fire spread after the vehicle was submerged in saltwater.
WILD VIDEO: @pinellasgov shared a video of a Tesla catching fire in a flooded garage during Hurricane Helene.
The county said electric vehicles flooded in saltwater can catch fire.
Read more: https://t.co/vr4agOytVD pic.twitter.com/yHG0qmNKJu
— WFLA NEWS (@WFLA) September 29, 2024
This incident serves as a reminder that while electric vehicles offer many advantages, they also come with specific risks—especially in severe weather situations like floods.
Staying Safe with Electric Vehicles After Floods
As electric vehicles become more popular, it’s important for owners to be aware of the unique risks they face, particularly in flood situations.
If your EV has been exposed to floodwaters, especially saltwater, make sure to get it inspected before driving it again to ensure it’s safe to operate. By staying cautious and following these safety tips, you can avoid potentially dangerous situations like the one seen in Florida after Hurricane Helene.