Lights flashing, loud idle, various other issues

If something like the engine fan is not working properly or there is a blockage in a/c system causing high head pressure, the a/c can purge from an over pressure vent on the bottom of the compressor. It would make a loud hiss and you would see the vaporized freon. If you can look under left side under engine and see if there is dye/freon/oil on frame or rack under compressor. If this did happen you have some problems for sure with the a/c.

 

I'd guess rodents gnawing on a wiring harness. But that wouldn't explain the hissing & steam.

 

Unless they had radiator hose for dessert

 

Welcome to TW

 

Maybe the hissing was a belt shredding and the steam was some of the belt dust being kicked up? I'm afraid we will never know