Following recent coastal flooding in Southern California, fire officials are raising concerns about the risks associated with electric vehicles and other battery-powered transportation exposed to saltwater. The Laguna Beach Fire Department warned that lithium-ion batteries in electric cars, hybrids, electric bicycles, and scooters could ignite days or even weeks after contact with saltwater.
During the recent weather event, waves impacted homes in Long Beach as Tropical Storm Rachel drew near. High tides and storm surge brought intense flooding, damaging infrastructure and inducing emergency actions, notably mandatory evacuations in Long Beach for unsafe homes.
A flash flood warning was issued for Orange, Riverside, and Imperial counties, heightened by the residual effects of Tropical Storm Rachel. The storm wreaked havoc on coastal areas, including Long Beach, Newport Beach, and Malibu, with surf measuring between 5 to 8 feet. Authorities cautioned that high tides could cause substantial beach erosion and additional flooding through Sunday afternoon.
Even vehicles that appear unaffected could be dangerous if floodwater reached their electrical components. Officials strongly advised not to drive or charge potentially damaged vehicles. Instead, contact an insurance provider, arrange for a professional tow, and have a certified mechanic examine the vehicle, focusing on electric or hybrid technology.
The advisory extends to e-bikes and electric scooters possibly exposed to saltwater. Key indicators of a hazardous battery include smoke, unusual noises such as hissing or popping, and abnormal heat. Anyone witnessing these signs should immediately step away from the object and call emergency services. Fire officials underscored the importance of not moving or attempting to extinguish a fire involving a battery oneself, as latent dangers can cause fires long after floodwaters recede.
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