Proper handling of electric vehicles after flooding or hurricanes
As electric vehicles (EVs) become increasingly popular, it’s essential for business owners and managers to understand the unique risks associated with these vehicles, especially in flood-prone areas. While EVs offer numerous benefits, their lithium-ion batteries can pose significant hazards when exposed to floodwaters.
Hazards of submerged electric vehicles
EVs with lithium-ion batteries that are submerged in water or otherwise damaged pose significant fire and health risks. Short circuiting, corrosion and overheating can lead to thermal runaway, a dangerous reaction that can cause a battery to catch fire, explode or emit toxic gases.1 EV fires are more difficult to extinguish, and the batteries take a long time to cool and may reignite.2 The following are just a few notable examples of this occurring:
- 2022: After Hurricane Ian hit Florida there were 21 electric vehicle-related fires and over 5,000 compromised batteries.
- 2023: There were two EV battery fires due to the floodwaters that followed Hurricane Idalia
- 2024: A destructive EV battery fire claimed the entire home of a Florida family during Hurricane Helene. In the aftermath of Hurricane Milton, which struck Florida in October 2024, several more instances of EV-related fires and damage were reported.
How can businesses protect electric vehicles from damaging floodwaters?
As a first step, you should look to your vehicle manufacturer for guidance on pre- and post-storm actions related to specific vehicles.
Pre-storm Actions
Businesses should implement a formal evacuation plan that includes relocating vehicles and other critical assets to higher ground. Please see our Vehicle Flood Evacuation Plan guidance.
- Prior to any hurricane making landfall, or expected flooding, EVs should be moved to higher ground.
- If they cannot be moved to higher ground3:
- Move vehicles away from structures to minimize fire risk.
- Make sure to unplug the charger from the vehicle and reduce the state of charge.
- If possible, lift the vehicle so that the high-voltage battery is above a potential flood line by using jack stands, ramps, etc.
- Educate drivers about the hazards of driving EVs on flooded roads where batteries can be exposed to water.
Post-Storm Actions
After an EV has been exposed to water, do not attempt to drive or charge the vehicle until a certified technician has thoroughly inspected it. Tesla recommends that you treat the flooding event as if the vehicle has been in an accident.3 Charging equipment should also be inspected.
- Emergency signs: Immediately contact 911 if you see dark and light clouds that look like smoke coming from underneath the EV, if you hear popping, whistling, or hissing noises or see jet-like flames from underneath the vehicle.3
- Safety distance: The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) advises that vehicles with lithium-ion batteries should be kept at least 50 feet away from buildings or other vehicles after they have been submerged due to the potential fire hazard. This is critical for businesses who may retrieve and store previously submerged vehicles on their premises.1
- Venting and interaction: Damaged EV batteries can produce toxic gases. Venting the passenger compartment is recommended once the vehicle is out of the water. Avoid interaction with a vehicle exhibiting signs of damaged or over heating high-voltage batteries, including leaking fluids, sparks, smoke, bubbling noises, or unusual odors.5
- Hazardous waste management: Any lithium-ion battery that is used, damaged, or defective, including any battery retrieved from a flooded area, must be managed and transported as hazardous waste. For example, batteries must be removed by a registered hazardous waste transporter and taken to a permitted transfer, storage, and disposal facility, according to Florida Department of Environmental Protection.2 Check for the specific requirements in your state.
Business owners in flood prone areas should review this article with their EV drivers and staff, focusing on battery hazards and pre-storm and post-storm actions.
The risks associated with submerged electric vehicles are significant, but with proper preparation and response, these hazards can be managed effectively. By following the recommended pre- and post-storm actions, businesses can protect their assets and ensure the safety of their employees and customers.
1 Thermal runaway caused fire and explosion of lithium-ion battery, Journal of Power Sources, Volume 208, June 15, 2012.
2 Electric Vehicle Fire Staged to Study Environmental, Health Ramifications, University of Miami Miller school of Medicine, Mark Gaige, September 9, 2004.
3 Submerged Vehicle Guidance . (n.d.). Retrieved from Tesla: https://www.tesla.com/support/submerged-vehicle-guidance
4 Goff, M. (2024, April 15). From Florida floods to Idaho desert: Understanding impacts of flood dmage on vehicle batteries.
5 Post Hurricane Ian: How to Handle Electric Vehicle (EV) Lithium-Ion Batteries. (2024, October). Retrieved from Florida DEP