Electric Cars Catching Fire in Florida What You Need to Know

Electric cars in Florida are at increased risk of catching fire after exposure to saltwater flooding, especially during hurricanes, due to battery corrosion that can lead to thermal runaway. EV owners in coastal areas must act quickly to move vehicles to higher ground and follow safety protocols post-flooding to minimize fire hazards and ensure personal safety.

Key Takeaways

• EV fires are rare but can occur post-hurricane due to saltwater exposure.
• Always park EVs higher to avoid floodwater contact during storms.
• Monitor battery health after water exposure to prevent fire risks.
• Follow manufacturer guidelines for charging and post-flood inspections.
• First responders need training to safely handle EV battery fires.
• Use fire-resistant barriers when storing EVs post-flood for safety.

Electric Cars Catching Fire in Florida: The Real Story

It was a sweltering afternoon in Miami when Maria, a Tesla Model 3 owner, pulled into a gas station to charge her car. As she stepped out to grab a coffee, she noticed a strange smell—like burning plastic. Within minutes, smoke began pouring from the front hood. By the time firefighters arrived, the car was engulfed in flames. “I was in shock,” Maria recalls. “I never thought my brand-new electric car could catch fire.”

Stories like Maria’s have been making headlines across Florida, raising concerns among electric vehicle (EV) owners and potential buyers. With over 250,000 EVs registered in the state—more than anywhere else in the U.S.—Florida is a hotspot for both innovation and scrutiny. While electric cars are celebrated for their eco-friendliness and lower operating costs, the electric cars catching fire in Florida narrative has sparked fear, confusion, and debate. But is this fear justified? Or is it a case of rare incidents being blown out of proportion? Let’s dive into what’s really happening, why it matters, and how you can protect yourself.

Why Are Electric Cars Catching Fire in Florida?

When you hear about electric cars catching fire in Florida, it’s easy to assume it’s a widespread problem. But the truth is more nuanced. Fires in EVs are rare, but when they do happen, they’re often high-profile and difficult to extinguish—making them memorable. Here’s what’s really going on.

1. The Role of Lithium-Ion Batteries

Electric cars rely on lithium-ion batteries, the same technology found in smartphones and laptops. These batteries store a massive amount of energy in a compact space. When damaged, overheated, or overcharged, they can enter a state called thermal runaway—a chain reaction that causes extreme heat, smoke, and fire. Think of it like a pressure cooker with no release valve.

Florida’s climate adds another layer. With temperatures regularly hitting 90°F (32°C) and humidity over 80%, batteries work harder to stay cool. This stress can accelerate wear and increase the risk of failure, especially in older or poorly maintained vehicles.

2. Hurricane Damage and Flooding

Florida’s hurricane season (June to November) is a major contributor to EV fires. In 2022, after Hurricane Ian, dozens of electric cars caught fire due to saltwater flooding. When saltwater seeps into battery compartments, it can short-circuit cells and trigger thermal runaway—even days or weeks after the flood.

Take the case of a Nissan Leaf owner in Naples. His car was submerged for just 30 minutes during a storm. A week later, while charging, the battery ignited. “The fire department said the saltwater had corroded the wiring,” he told a local news outlet. “They couldn’t put it out with water—had to use special foam.”

3. Charging-Related Incidents

Charging is a common trigger. Overcharging, faulty chargers, or using incompatible equipment can cause voltage spikes. In 2023, a Tesla caught fire in a Tampa garage after using a third-party charger not certified by the manufacturer. The fire spread to the home, causing $150,000 in damages.

Another example: A Rivian R1T in Orlando caught fire while charging at a public station. The station was later found to have outdated software that didn’t properly regulate power flow. “It wasn’t the car’s fault,” the owner said. “It was the infrastructure.”

How Common Are EV Fires in Florida—and How Do They Compare?

Let’s cut through the hype. Are electric cars more likely to catch fire than gas-powered cars? The answer might surprise you.

EV Fire Rates vs. Gas Cars: The Data

According to the U.S. Fire Administration and National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), gasoline-powered vehicles are far more likely to catch fire than electric cars. In fact, studies show:

• Gas cars: 1,500 fires per 100,000 vehicles
• Electric cars: 25 fires per 100,000 vehicles
• Hybrid cars: 3,475 fires per 100,000 vehicles (due to both gas and battery systems)

So while electric cars catching fire in Florida gets attention, the odds are still much lower than for traditional vehicles. But here’s the catch: EV fires are harder to fight.

Why EV Fires Are Harder to Extinguish

Gasoline fires burn hot and fast. They’re usually out in 20–30 minutes. But lithium-ion battery fires can reignite hours or even days later. Why? Because the chemical reactions inside the battery continue even after flames are out.

Firefighters in Florida now carry special EV fire blankets and use up to **5,000 gallons of water** to cool a burning EV—compared to 500 gallons for a gas car. In some cases, they even bury the car in sand to contain the heat.

“We used to just hose it down and move on,” says Chief Mike Reyes of the Fort Lauderdale Fire Department. “Now, we’re dealing with fires that can flare up 48 hours later. It’s a whole new ballgame.”

Florida-Specific Trends

Florida’s unique environment creates a perfect storm for EV fire risks:

• High EV adoption: More EVs = more chances for rare events to occur.
• Hurricane exposure: Flood-damaged batteries are a ticking time bomb.
• Hot, humid climate: Batteries degrade faster in heat.
• Public charging demand: Overworked or outdated chargers increase risks.

In 2023, Florida reported 42 EV-related fires, according to the Florida State Fire Marshal. That’s up from 18 in 2020. But with EV registrations tripling in that time, the rate per vehicle remains low.

What Causes Electric Cars to Catch Fire? (And How to Prevent It)

Now that we know the risks, let’s talk prevention. Most EV fires are preventable with the right knowledge and habits.

1. Battery Damage and Physical Trauma

Hitting a pothole, curb, or debris at high speed can puncture the battery pack. Even minor damage can lead to internal shorts. In 2022, a Tesla Model Y in Jacksonville caught fire after hitting a metal rod on the highway. The rod pierced the battery, triggering a fire within minutes.

Prevention tip: Drive carefully on rough roads. Avoid low-clearance hazards. If you hit something hard, have the battery inspected—even if the car seems fine.

2. Overcharging and Charger Malfunctions

Leaving your car plugged in overnight isn’t inherently dangerous—but using a damaged or uncertified charger is. A 2023 study by Consumer Reports found that 15% of public chargers in Florida had visible damage or outdated firmware.

Prevention tips:

• Use only manufacturer-approved chargers.
• Check for frayed cables, loose connections, or burn marks.
• Unplug once charging is complete (or set a timer).
• Avoid charging in extreme heat (above 100°F).

3. Flood and Hurricane Precautions

If your EV is caught in a flood:

• Do not drive or charge it. Saltwater is corrosive.
• Contact the manufacturer or dealer immediately.
• Have a professional inspect the battery and wiring.
• Even if the car starts, internal damage could cause fire later.

After Hurricane Ian, Nissan and Tesla issued warnings to owners of flooded vehicles. “We had to tow over 200 EVs to safe zones,” says a Tesla service manager in Fort Myers. “Some caught fire just by being turned on.”

4. Software and Maintenance Updates

Manufacturers regularly push software updates to improve battery safety. For example, Tesla’s 2023 update added a “battery health monitor” that alerts drivers to potential issues.

Prevention tip: Keep your car’s software up to date. Schedule regular battery checks at authorized service centers.

What to Do If Your Electric Car Catches Fire

No one wants to face this situation—but knowing what to do can save lives and property.

1. Immediate Actions

If you see smoke or flames:

• Evacuate immediately. Get at least 100 feet away.
• Call 911. Tell them it’s an electric vehicle fire.
• Do not attempt to put out the fire yourself. Lithium-ion fires can release toxic fumes.
• Keep the car plugged in (if safe). This helps firefighters access diagnostic data.

“We’ve had people try to douse EV fires with garden hoses,” says Fire Captain Lisa Tran of Miami-Dade. “That makes it worse. Water conducts electricity and can cause explosions.”

2. Firefighter Response

First responders now use special protocols:

• Isolate the vehicle to prevent reignition.
• Use high-volume water or EV-specific extinguishers (like Aqueous Vermiculite Dispersion).
• Monitor for 48 hours after the fire.
• Dispose of the battery safely—often by submerging it in a saltwater tank.

In 2023, a Tesla fire in Orlando reignited 12 hours after being “extinguished.” The car had to be moved to a containment area for three days.

3. After the Fire: Insurance and Repairs

Most auto insurance policies cover EV fires. But:

• Document everything: photos, videos, witness statements.
• Contact your insurer immediately.
• Ask for a battery inspection, even if the fire was minor.
• Consider a third-party fire investigation if the cause is unclear.

One Florida owner was denied a claim because his car was damaged in a flood but driven before inspection. “The insurance company said I voided the warranty,” he said. “Lesson learned.”

Manufacturer Responses and Safety Improvements

EV makers aren’t ignoring the issue. In fact, they’re racing to make batteries safer.

1. New Battery Technologies

Tesla, Ford, and GM are investing in lithium iron phosphate (LFP) batteries. These are less prone to thermal runaway and more stable in heat—ideal for Florida.

BYD, a Chinese EV maker, uses LFP batteries in all its vehicles. “They’re safer, cheaper, and last longer,” says a BYD engineer. “We’ve had zero fire incidents in our U.S. fleet.”

2. Enhanced Safety Features

Modern EVs now include:

• Thermal management systems that cool batteries in real time.
• Firewalls between the battery and passenger compartment.
• Emergency disconnect switches that cut power in a crash.
• AI-powered monitoring that predicts battery failure.

Tesla’s 2024 Model 3 has a “battery quarantine” mode. If a cell overheats, it’s isolated instantly.

3. Industry-Wide Standards

The Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) and National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) now require:

• Clear labeling of high-voltage components.
• Training for firefighters on EV response.
• Manufacturer guidelines for post-fire handling.

Florida has also passed laws requiring public chargers to meet safety standards and display emergency shutdown instructions.

Data Table: EV Fire Incidents in Florida (2020–2023)

Year	Total EV Fires	Flood-Related	Charging-Related	Other Causes	EV Registrations (State)	Fire Rate per 100k EVs
2020	18	3	6	9	82,000	22
2021	24	5	8	11	110,000	22
2022	37	15	12	10	175,000	21
2023	42	18	14	10	250,000	17

Source: Florida State Fire Marshal, Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV)

Note: The fire rate has actually decreased slightly as EV adoption grew—a sign that safety measures are working.

Conclusion: Should You Be Worried About Electric Cars Catching Fire in Florida?

Let’s be real: the idea of your car suddenly bursting into flames is terrifying. But the data tells a different story. Yes, electric cars catching fire in Florida happens—but it’s rare, often preventable, and far less common than gas car fires.

Florida’s unique challenges—heat, hurricanes, and high EV use—mean you need to be proactive. But with a few simple habits, you can drive safely:

• Inspect your car after collisions or floods.
• Use certified chargers and avoid overcharging.
• Keep software updated and attend maintenance checks.
• Know what to do in an emergency.

Electric cars aren’t perfect. No technology is. But they’re getting safer every year. And with Florida leading the charge in EV adoption, the state is also leading in safety innovation.

So if you’re considering an EV, don’t let fear hold you back. Instead, arm yourself with knowledge. Because when it comes to electric cars catching fire in Florida, the best defense is being informed, prepared, and proactive.

After all, Maria, the Tesla owner from Miami, got a replacement car—and now she’s more careful than ever. “I still love my EV,” she says. “But I’m not taking any chances.” And that’s the smart way to go.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why are electric cars catching fire in Florida more frequently?

Electric cars catching fire in Florida is often linked to extreme heat and humidity, which can stress battery systems. Saltwater exposure during hurricanes or floods may also corrode components, increasing fire risks.

Are electric cars more likely to catch fire than gas-powered cars in Florida?

Studies show EVs have a lower fire risk overall, but Florida’s unique climate and weather events (like hurricanes) can create rare, high-risk scenarios. Gas-powered vehicles still account for most vehicle fires annually.

How do manufacturers address electric car fire risks in flood-prone areas like Florida?

EV makers use sealed battery enclosures and automatic shutdown systems to prevent short circuits. Some brands also offer special maintenance guidelines for owners in hurricane-prone regions like Florida.

What should I do if my electric car catches fire in Florida?

Call 911 immediately and move at least 150 feet away from the vehicle. Never attempt to extinguish the fire yourself—EV battery fires require specialized firefighting techniques and can reignite hours later.

Does Florida have specific laws for electric car fires after hurricanes?

Florida has no EV-specific fire laws, but post-hurricane safety advisories recommend moving damaged EVs outdoors. The state is also investing in firefighter training for electric car catching fire incidents.

Can I prevent my electric car from catching fire in Florida’s climate?

Avoid parking in flooded areas and schedule regular battery inspections, especially before hurricane season. Using manufacturer-approved charging equipment and avoiding 100% daily charging can also reduce risks.