Cargo Ship Fire Near Alaska: EV Batteries Fuel Maritime Safety Concerns

Cargo Ship Fire Near Alaska Highlights Growing Risks of Electric Vehicle Transport A cargo ship, the Morning Midas, caught fire in the Pacific Ocean near Alaska on June 8, 2025, forcing the entire crew to abandon ship. The vessel was carrying 3,000 vehicles, including 800 electric vehicles, from China to Mexico. The incident has raised concerns about the increasing risks associated with the transportation of electric vehicles. "Experts say fires on cargo ships is nothing new, but electric vehicles are complicating them like never before," stated a news report. The fire, supercharged by the lithium-ion batteries in the EVs, presented significant challenges for firefighting efforts. Mike Gallacher, CEO of Ports Australia, commented on the preparedness of Australian ports for such incidents, emphasizing the need for comprehensive plans to address the unique challenges posed by EV fires. The Australian Maritime Safety Authority's previous guidance on the safe carriage of EVs was also highlighted in the report. The incident underscores the need for improved safety protocols and preparedness measures within the maritime industry to handle the increasing number of electric vehicles being transported globally. The Morning Midas incident serves as a stark reminder of the potential consequences of such fires and the importance of proactive measures to mitigate future risks.