A sudden and devastating flash flood struck Havasu Canyon, a tributary of the Grand Canyon, last week, leading to one fatality and leaving multiple visitors stranded. The flash flood, which occurred just before 1:30 p.m. on Thursday, wreaked havoc in the area, prompting a swift response from rescue teams and causing the temporary closure of popular tourist spots within the canyon.
Tragic Outcome of the Flash Flood
- Location: The flash flood hit Havasu Canyon, approximately 30 miles west of Grand Canyon Village, Arizona.
- Fatality: Chenoa Nickerson, a 33-year-old woman from Gilbert, Arizona, was tragically swept away by the floodwaters. Her body was found in the Colorado River on Sunday, three days after she was last seen at the confluence of the river and Havasu Creek.
- Rescue Operations: The National Park Service, along with the Arizona National Guard, initiated extensive search and rescue operations. Over 100 people were airlifted out of the flood-affected area over the subsequent days.
Tourists’ Harrowing Experience
- Cave Refuge: Carly Johnson, one of the stranded visitors, along with others, sought refuge in a nearby cave as the floodwaters surged. The group was trapped in Mooney Falls, with the muddy water surrounding them on all sides. The cave provided temporary shelter as they waited for rescue.
- Visitor Evacuation: By Saturday afternoon, all visitors who requested evacuation were safely airlifted out of the area. The flash flood, described as a cascade of muddy rainwater, created a hazardous environment, turning the once serene landscape into a treacherous zone.
Impact on Havasu Canyon and Tourism
- Area Closure: Following the flood, the Havasupai Tribal Council announced the indefinite closure of Supai Village and the surrounding trails, campgrounds, and falls. The damage was extensive, rendering the area “unpassable.”
- Tourism Ban: Havasupai Tribe Tourism made the decision to bar tourists from the area until further notice, prioritizing safety as they assess and repair the damage.
Ongoing Safety Concerns
- NPS Statement: Joelle Baird, a spokesperson for the National Park Service, confirmed that Nickerson’s death was the only reported fatality related to the flash flood. Fortunately, no injuries were reported within the Havasupai Indian Reservation, which oversees the area above Beaver Falls.
- Tourist Precautions: The flash flood serves as a stark reminder of the unpredictable and dangerous nature of such natural disasters in the region, prompting authorities to take necessary precautions to protect visitors.
The flash flood in Havasu Canyon not only claimed a life but also underscored the risks associated with exploring natural landscapes. As authorities continue to manage the aftermath and ensure the safety of visitors, the tragic incident highlights the need for caution and preparedness when venturing into the wilderness. The closure of Havasupai to tourists will remain in place until it is deemed safe to reopen, ensuring that future visitors can enjoy the beauty of the Grand Canyon without the looming threat of such disasters.