Temecula residents who own electric vehicles, hybrids, e-bikes or scooters should check whether floodwater from Tropical Storm Rachel reached their batteries.

The Laguna Beach Fire Department warned Saturday, Oct. 10, that floodwater can damage lithium-ion batteries and trigger fires days or even weeks after exposure, as KTLA reported. The department's warning was issued in response to coastal saltwater flooding, but any floodwater that reaches a battery or electrical components can pose a risk.

Southwest Riverside County communities including Temecula, Murrieta and Menifee were under a flood watch and faced possible localized flooding as the storm moved through the area Sunday, Oct. 11, according to Valley News. The National Weather Service forecast a quarter-inch to an inch of rain for most Southern California communities through Monday, Oct. 12. The City of Temecula had distributed free sandbags at five local fire stations ahead of the storm.

The fire risk applies even to vehicles that appear to work normally, the Laguna Beach Fire Department said in an Instagram post. Anyone whose EV, hybrid, e-bike or scooter was partially submerged or exposed to floodwater should not drive or charge it.

Instead, the department urged owners to contact their insurance company, arrange professional towing and have the vehicle inspected by a certified mechanic trained to service electric or hybrid vehicles.

Warning signs of a dangerous battery include smoke, hissing or popping sounds and unusual heat. Anyone who notices those signs should move away immediately and call 911. Do not attempt to move the vehicle or put out a battery fire.

The danger may not show up right away. Battery fires can ignite long after floodwaters recede, the department emphasized.

No EV or e-bike fires tied to Tropical Storm Rachel have been reported in Temecula or Riverside County as of Monday, Oct. 12. No statement specific to the Temecula area has been issued by the Riverside County Fire Department on this topic.

Residents can sign up for emergency alerts through Temecula ALERT or Alert RivCo to receive notifications about floods, wildfires and other emergencies. Cell phone and VOIP users must register; traditional landlines are enrolled automatically.