Grand Canyon in Flames! Historic Lodge Destroyed by Wildfire!
Historic Grand Canyon Lodge Gone in Wildfire!
Tragedy has struck the Grand Canyon National Park as a historic lodge on the North Rim has been completely destroyed by a raging wildfire. Park officials confirmed the devastating news on Sunday, leaving residents and staff reeling.
Grand Canyon National Park Superintendent Ed Keeble announced that the Grand Canyon Lodge, the only lodging option on the North Rim, was consumed by the flames. The fire also claimed the visitor center, gas station, wastewater treatment plant, employee housing, and an administrative building, leaving a trail of destruction.
Two wildfires are currently burning in or near the North Rim: the White Sage Fire and the Dragon Bravo Fire. The Dragon Bravo Fire is responsible for the destruction of the lodge and other structures. Initially managed as a controlled burn, the fire quickly escalated, forcing officials to shift to suppression efforts.
As of Sunday morning, the Dragon Bravo Fire had scorched over 5,000 acres. Fire crews are working tirelessly to contain the blaze near Roaring Springs and Transept Canyons.
The burning of the wastewater treatment plant resulted in a chlorine gas release, prompting the evacuation of firefighters and hikers from the inner canyon. Residents of Marble Canyon, Lees Ferry, and parts of the Navajo Nation are advised to be aware of potential chlorine smells, as the gas can settle in lower elevations.
The White Sage Fire, sparked by lightning on July 9, has also expanded rapidly, scorching approximately 19,100 acres near Jacob Lake. This has led to the closure of the park's North Rim and the evacuation of area residents.
Park officials successfully evacuated approximately 500 guests from the North Rim due to the fire. An extreme heat warning remains in effect, with temperatures expected to reach highs of up to 46°C. Hiking into the Grand Canyon is strongly discouraged.
This is a developing story. Stay tuned for updates.