Flooded Tesla Ignites After Hurricane: EV Owners Warned

 

Hurricane Helene has wreaked havoc across the Southeastern U.S., claiming over 95 lives and leaving widespread damage in its wake. While flooding is usually the primary concern during such storms, it has also led to unexpected dangers — like electric vehicle (EV) fires.

In a recent incident in Pinellas County, Florida, a Tesla parked in a garage that had flooded with saltwater caught fire. A video shared by local officials shows the car suddenly erupting in flames from underneath, eventually consuming the entire vehicle. The footage serves as a reminder of the risks EVs face after being submerged in saltwater.

A surprising number of people have asked me about this video. Nothing about this is new, and shouldn’t be shocking to learn. Salt water is super corrosive and can/will in most cases find its way into the pack on an EV. During a Hurricane, salt water flooding can cause an HV… pic.twitter.com/eZys7lXqit

— Bearded Tesla (@BeardedTesla) September 29, 2024

Pinellas County issued a public warning to EV owners, advising against parking or charging their vehicles in homes or garages if they've been exposed to floodwaters.

They also stressed the importance of keeping EVs away from flammable materials. For those with flood-damaged vehicles, officials recommend having them inspected at a dealership before use.

Get an EV they said… it would be safe they said….

Salt water got into an EV’s battery and caused a massive fire after Hurricane Helene. pic.twitter.com/guNGPpYb0q

— "Experts" Posting Their Ls (@ExpertsPostLs) September 29, 2024

Meanwhile, President Biden has addressed the devastation caused by Hurricane Helene, promising full federal support to the affected states, including Florida, Georgia, and the Carolinas. The storm has left a trail of destruction, and recovery efforts are underway.