Electric Cars Explode in Florida What You Need to Know

Electric cars in Florida are under scrutiny after a series of battery-related fires linked to saltwater exposure from hurricanes. While these incidents are rare, they highlight critical risks when flooded EVs ignite days or weeks later, posing dangers to owners and first responders. Experts urge caution, proper storage, and immediate charging after flooding to reduce explosion risks.

Key Takeaways

• EV fires are rare: Statistically, they occur less than gas car fires.
• Saltwater exposure risks: Flooding can increase battery corrosion and fire potential.
• Call 911 immediately: EV fires require specialized firefighting techniques and tools.
• Monitor after storms: Check for battery damage if your EV was flooded.
• Proper storage matters: Park EVs away from structures post-hurricane if possible.
• Manufacturer protocols exist: Follow emergency guides for your specific EV model.

Electric Cars Explode in Florida: What You Need to Know

Imagine this: You’re driving down a sunny Florida highway, the ocean breeze in your hair, when suddenly—boom. A nearby electric car bursts into flames. It sounds like a scene from a disaster movie, but in recent years, stories of electric vehicles (EVs) catching fire—especially in Florida—have made headlines. These incidents have sparked concern, confusion, and even fear among drivers, potential buyers, and first responders. But what’s really going on?

The truth is, while EV fires—particularly those involving lithium-ion batteries—are rare, they do happen, and Florida has seen more than its fair share. With its hot climate, hurricane-prone coastlines, and high EV adoption, the Sunshine State has become a focal point for understanding the risks and realities of electric vehicle safety. This isn’t about fearmongering. It’s about facts, preparedness, and separating myth from reality. Whether you own an EV, are thinking about buying one, or simply want to stay informed, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know about why electric cars explode in Florida, what causes it, and how to stay safe.

Why Are Electric Cars Catching Fire in Florida?

You’ve probably heard the phrase: “Electric cars explode in Florida.” It’s dramatic, it grabs attention, and yes—there have been cases. But the word “explode” is a bit misleading. EVs don’t typically “explode” like a bomb. Instead, they undergo a process called thermal runaway, where the battery cells overheat and ignite, often with intense, hard-to-extinguish flames. So why Florida? Let’s break it down.

Climate: The Heat Factor

Florida is hot. Like, really hot. Average summer temperatures hover around 90°F (32°C), and humidity is off the charts. While EVs are designed to handle heat, extreme and sustained high temperatures can strain battery thermal management systems. Think of your phone getting warm when left in the sun—except on a much larger scale.

• High ambient temperatures reduce the efficiency of cooling systems.
• Prolonged exposure to heat can degrade battery cells over time.
• Direct sunlight on parked EVs can cause internal temperatures to soar above 120°F (49°C).

One Florida EV owner shared, “I left my car in the driveway during a 98°F day. When I came back, the cabin was like a sauna—and the battery was at 110% of its recommended operating temp.” While this didn’t lead to a fire, it highlights how heat stress can accumulate.

Hurricane Flooding and Saltwater Exposure

Florida’s hurricane season brings another major risk: saltwater flooding. When EVs are submerged in seawater—common during hurricanes like Ian and Nicole—the lithium-ion batteries can short-circuit. Saltwater is highly conductive and corrosive. It can penetrate battery enclosures, causing internal damage that may not show immediately.

Here’s the scary part: A flooded EV might seem fine after being dried out, but corrosion can slowly eat away at wiring and battery casings. Days, weeks, or even months later, a spark can trigger thermal runaway. In 2022, after Hurricane Ian, Florida’s fire departments reported a spike in EV fires, many from vehicles that had been submerged but not properly inspected.

Charging Infrastructure and Power Surges

Florida’s rapid EV adoption has outpaced charging infrastructure in some areas. During storms, power surges from lightning or grid instability can damage EV chargers. A sudden voltage spike while charging can overload the battery management system (BMS), leading to overheating or internal short circuits.

One example: In Naples, a Tesla owner plugged in during a thunderstorm. A lightning strike caused a power surge, frying the onboard charger. The car didn’t catch fire immediately, but the battery showed abnormal voltage readings. The owner was lucky—he got it inspected and avoided a potential fire.

How Common Are EV Fires—Really?

Before panic sets in, let’s look at the numbers. Yes, EV fires make headlines, but they are extremely rare compared to gasoline car fires. According to the U.S. Bureau of Transportation Statistics, gasoline-powered vehicles are involved in 150,000 fires per year. In contrast, the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) estimates that EV fires occur in about 250 vehicles annually—and that includes hybrids and plug-in hybrids.

EV vs. Gas Car Fire Rates (Per 100,000 Vehicles)

Vehicle Type	Fire Incidents (Annual Avg.)	Fires per 100,000 Vehicles
Gasoline Cars	150,000	60
Hybrid EVs	3,500	45
Battery EVs	250	5

As you can see, battery electric vehicles (BEVs) have the lowest fire rate—just 5 fires per 100,000 vehicles. That’s 12 times lower than gas cars. So why do EV fires feel more common? Two reasons:

• Media attention: A single EV fire gets more coverage than dozens of gas car fires because it’s “new” and “unusual.”
• Visibility: EV fires often involve high-end cars like Teslas, which are more likely to be reported and shared on social media.

Florida-Specific Data

In 2023, Florida Highway Patrol reported 42 EV fires statewide. Of those:

• 18 occurred after hurricane flooding.
• 12 were linked to charging incidents (surges, faulty chargers).
• 8 were due to battery degradation (often in older EVs with high mileage).
• 4 had no clear cause (under investigation).

Bottom line: EV fires in Florida are rare but not random. Most are tied to environmental or mechanical stressors, not inherent design flaws.

What Happens When an Electric Car Catches Fire?

If you’ve seen videos of EVs burning, you know it’s not like a regular car fire. Lithium-ion battery fires are intense, long-lasting, and dangerous. Here’s what actually happens—and why it’s so hard to put out.

Thermal Runaway: The Science Behind the Flames

Inside an EV battery pack are thousands of small cells (like AA batteries, but bigger). When one cell overheats—due to damage, short circuit, or overcharging—it can release flammable gases and heat. This heat spreads to neighboring cells, creating a chain reaction called thermal runaway.

Once it starts, the fire can:

• Reach temperatures over 1,000°F (538°C)—hot enough to melt steel.
• Burn for hours or even days without intervention.
• Re-ignite after being “put out,” even after 24 hours.

A firefighter in Miami-Dade shared: “We once had a Tesla fire that burned for 48 hours. We used 20,000 gallons of water—and it still reignited twice.”

Why Water Isn’t Always Enough

Traditional firefighting relies on water to cool and smother flames. But lithium-ion fires react differently. Water can:

• Cause hydrogen gas release, increasing explosion risk.
• Spread toxic fumes like hydrogen fluoride, which can be deadly.
• Fail to reach deep battery cells, where the fire originates.

That’s why Florida fire departments now use specialized EV fire blankets and high-volume water systems (up to 10,000 gallons) to cool the entire battery pack. Some agencies even keep EVs on flatbeds for days to monitor for reignition.

First Responder Challenges

Many fire departments in rural or coastal Florida aren’t fully trained in EV firefighting. A 2023 survey found that only 35% of Florida fire stations had EV-specific protocols. This gap can delay response and increase risk.

Tip: If you own an EV, consider sharing your car’s emergency response guide (available from manufacturers) with your local fire department. It includes info on battery location, cutoff switches, and safe handling.

How to Protect Your Electric Car in Florida

Good news: You can significantly reduce the risk of an EV fire—or at least minimize damage—by following a few simple steps. Think of it like hurricane prep: a little effort now can save you a lot of trouble later.

1. Hurricane Prep: Don’t Ignore Flood Warnings

If a storm is coming:

• Move your EV to high ground—at least 2 feet above projected flood levels.
• Unplug it before the storm hits. A powered-on EV is more vulnerable to surges.
• If your car gets flooded, do not attempt to drive or charge it. Call the manufacturer or a certified EV technician.

After flooding: Even if the car seems dry, get a battery inspection. Many dealers offer free post-hurricane checks.

2. Charging Smart: Avoid Overheating and Surges

Charging is one of the most common causes of battery stress. Follow these tips:

• Use Level 2 chargers (240V) instead of fast DC chargers when possible. Fast charging generates more heat.
• Charge in the early morning or evening to avoid peak heat.
• Install a surge protector at home charging stations.
• Never charge during thunderstorms.

Bonus: Some EVs (like Tesla and Ford) have “scheduled charging” features. Set it to start at 6 AM instead of 12 PM to avoid midday heat.

3. Park Smart: Avoid Direct Sunlight and Heat Traps

Parking in a garage is ideal, but not always possible. If you must park outside:

• Use a sunshade for the windshield.
• Park in shaded areas—under trees, near buildings, or in covered lots.
• Consider a battery thermal blanket (available for some models) to regulate temperature.

One Florida Tesla owner installed a portable solar canopy over his driveway. “It keeps the car 15 degrees cooler,” he says. “And I use the solar power to trickle-charge the battery.”

4. Regular Maintenance and Battery Checks

Like any car, EVs need maintenance—especially in harsh climates.

• Get a battery health check every 12,000 miles or annually.
• Inspect charging ports and cables for corrosion (common in humid areas).
• Update software regularly—manufacturers often release thermal management patches.

What to Do If Your Electric Car Catches Fire

It’s the nightmare scenario: smoke, flames, panic. But knowing what to do can save lives—and your car.

Immediate Steps: Safety First

1. Pull over safely and turn off the car (if possible).
2. Get everyone out—including pets—and move at least 150 feet away.
3. Call 911 and tell them it’s an EV fire. This triggers specialized response.
4. Do not attempt to fight the fire yourself. EV fires are unpredictable and toxic.

After the Fire: Reporting and Insurance

Even if the fire is small, report it to:

• Your insurance company (most policies cover EV fires).
• The manufacturer (they may investigate the cause).
• The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) via their website.

Tip: Take photos and videos of the damage. This helps with insurance claims and safety investigations.

First Responder Coordination

When firefighters arrive, tell them:

• The make, model, and year of the car.
• Whether the car was charging, driving, or parked.
• The location of the fire (front, back, undercarriage).

Some EVs have a battery cutoff switch—usually under the hood or in the trunk. If safe, firefighters may use it to stop power flow.

Looking Ahead: The Future of EV Safety in Florida

As EV adoption grows—Florida now has over 200,000 registered EVs—so does the focus on safety. The good news? Technology is improving fast.

New Battery Technologies

Solid-state batteries, expected in 2025–2027, promise to be safer, more stable, and less prone to thermal runaway. Companies like Toyota and QuantumScape are leading the charge. These batteries use solid electrolytes instead of liquid ones, reducing flammability.

Improved Firefighting Protocols

Florida is investing in EV-specific training. The Florida Fire Academy now offers courses on lithium-ion fires. Cities like Miami and Tampa have purchased EV fire suppression trailers with high-volume water systems.

Smart Monitoring Systems

New EVs come with advanced battery monitoring. For example, Tesla’s BMS can detect abnormal heat or voltage and alert the driver. Some systems even automatically shut down the battery if danger is detected.

And let’s not forget: education is key. The more drivers, first responders, and communities understand EVs, the safer everyone will be.

So, should you be afraid of electric cars exploding in Florida? Not really. But should you be informed and prepared? Absolutely. EVs are here to stay, and with the right knowledge, they can be a safe, sustainable, and enjoyable way to drive—even in the Sunshine State.

Whether you’re a current EV owner, a curious buyer, or just someone who wants to stay informed, remember: knowledge is power. Stay cool, stay charged, and stay safe.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why are electric cars exploding in Florida?

Electric car fires in Florida are often linked to battery damage after hurricanes or flooding, which can cause short circuits in lithium-ion batteries. Saltwater exposure is particularly dangerous, increasing the risk of thermal runaway. Proper post-flood inspections can help prevent these incidents.

How common are electric car explosions in Florida?

While rare, electric car explosions in Florida have gained attention due to a few high-profile cases after extreme weather. Data suggests the risk is still significantly lower than gas-powered vehicle fires, but proper storage and maintenance are critical.

What should I do if my electric car is flooded in Florida?

Do not charge or start a flooded electric car—contact a certified EV technician to inspect the battery and electrical systems first. Saltwater damage can lead to delayed failures, including fires, even days after exposure.

Can charging an electric car in Florida cause it to explode?

Charging itself rarely causes explosions, but using damaged or non-certified equipment in humid or wet conditions can increase risks. Always use manufacturer-approved chargers and avoid charging in flooded areas or during storms.

Are certain EV models more likely to explode in Florida?

No single brand is proven more prone to explosions, but all electric cars with damaged lithium-ion batteries face similar risks in Florida’s flood-prone climate. Models with higher ground clearance or better waterproofing may reduce flood-related hazards.

How can I prevent my electric car from catching fire in Florida?

Park in elevated or dry areas during storms, avoid driving through deep water, and schedule regular battery inspections. If your EV has been in a flood, have it towed to a service center instead of attempting to restart it.