Hurricane Helene Causes Tesla Fire in Florida Garage
- Hurricane Helene struck the Southeastern United States in September 2024, causing severe flooding and over 95 deaths.
- A Tesla vehicle in Pinellas County, Florida, caught fire after being submerged in saltwater from the storm, leading to public safety warnings.
- Authorities advised electric vehicle owners to avoid charging or parking indoors to prevent similar incidents in the future.
In September 2024, Hurricane Helene caused widespread devastation across the Southeastern United States, resulting in over 95 fatalities and significant flooding. In Pinellas County, Florida, the storm's saltwater inundated garages, leading to dangerous fire hazards for electric vehicles. One Tesla parked in a flooded garage caught fire, with footage released by local officials showing the vehicle engulfed in flames. This incident prompted warnings from authorities about the risks of flooding for electric vehicles, particularly those exposed to saltwater. Officials advised owners to avoid charging or parking their electric vehicles indoors and to keep them away from combustible materials. The federal government, led by President Biden, pledged support to the affected states, highlighting the severity of the storm's impact on communities and infrastructure.