When hurricanes like Helene or Milton devastate coastal communities, first responders are faced with a new and growing threat: lithium-ion batteries in electric vehicles, e-bikes, and other devices. When these batteries come into contact with salty water during a storm surge, they risk catching fire, posing a danger to properties.
According to Bill Morelli, the fire chief in Seminole, Florida, any lithium-ion device exposed to salt water can be at risk, with EVs being especially hazardous due to their larger batteries. The frequency of such incidents has increased as electric vehicles become more popular.
The aftermath of Hurricane Milton, which hit Tampa Bay, saw several battery fires, including 11 related to EVs out of the 48 confirmed battery fires from Hurricane Helene. Fire departments across Florida have been responding to these incidents, with significant damage reported in some cases.
While battery fires are not common, they are challenging for first responders to extinguish due to the heat and difficulty in suppressing them. The construction of lithium-ion batteries makes them prone to catching fire, especially when exposed to water.
The structure of an EV battery, with its stacked cells in a sealed enclosure, becomes a fire risk when in contact with conductive saltwater. This can lead to thermal runaway, where excessive heat is generated and can cause the battery to ignite. Firefighters must use large volumes of water to reduce the heat, but this can be challenging during a disaster.
Proper training is essential for responding to battery fires, as these incidents can be difficult to manage due to the unique characteristics of lithium-ion batteries. The firefighting community faces challenges in acquiring the necessary resources and expertise to effectively combat these fires.
The risk of battery fires persists even after a storm has passed, highlighting the importance of proper inspection and maintenance of damaged vehicles. Efforts are underway to address these risks, with research focusing on safer battery technologies and prevention methods.
As the impact of storms like Helene and Milton sheds light on the dangers posed by lithium-ion batteries, stakeholders are working towards solutions to mitigate these risks and enhance public safety in the face of evolving challenges.
