Electric Vehicle Fire Causes Hazmat Situation in Cathedral City

A dramatic electric vehicle fire in Cathedral City led to a hazmat situation over the weekend, prompting the evacuation of several nearby businesses. The fire broke out in the vehicle's battery after it was disconnected from a charging station at the State or Brothers shopping center. The fire, which posed a serious hazard, quickly escalated as firefighters struggled to control it. Cathedral City Fire Department officials explained that unlike regular vehicle fires, electric vehicle fires are more complex due to the chemical reactions in lithium-ion batteries. Firefighters worked for over an hour and a half, flowing water continuously on the fire to prevent it from reigniting. Even though the fire was under control, officials warned that stopping the water flow would cause the fire to flare up again. In response, a hazmat perimeter was set up to protect the public from potentially toxic fumes. No injuries were reported, and local businesses were evacuated as authorities awaited the arrival of county health officials. This incident highlights the unique challenges posed by electric vehicle fires, as experts continue to learn more about how to safely handle these situations.