Flash Floods Trap 200 Hikers in Havasu Canyon, National Guard Conducts Rescue Ops, Tribal Lands Closed Indefinitely
Monsoon storms caused severe flash flooding in Havasu Canyon, leaving approximately 200 hikers temporarily stranded as infrastructure such as bridges and walkways were destroyed. The situation emerged rapidly on August 22, when a clear morning gave way to sudden severe weather, as reported by FOX 10 Phoenix. Latricia Mimbs, one of those stranded, described the suddenness of the flooding, stating, "We had to cross a lot of water crossings, a lot of the bridges washed out, but we made it back," in an interview with the outlet.
In response to the disaster, Arizona Governor Katie Hobbs activated the National Guard, with the deployment of resources including UH-60 Blackhawk helicopters which facilitated the evacuation of 104 tourists and tribal members from the affected area, along with three resupply drop-offs of food and water, this activation was detailed in an announcement obtained by ABC15. "My heart is with all of the people impacted by the flooding in Havasupai, including Tribal members and visitors to the area," Hobbs conveyed her concern.
The evacuation operation concluded around 1:30 p.m. on Saturday, as affirmed by statements from both National Guard officials and the Havasupai Tribe, who also declared a state of emergency and closed their tribal lands to visitation for the foreseeable future. The extent of the damage was such that the tribal lands will be closed to tourists until further notice due to extensive flooding damage, as the National Park Service announced.
Amidst the rescue efforts, a tragic note marred the situation with the discovery of 33-year-old Chenoa Nickerson's body, which was recovered on Sunday morning after days of searching for her, as per ABC15. The incident underscores the unpredictable and hazardous nature of flash floods in canyon territory, where waters can surge swiftly with little warning and where clearing skies can swiftly turn to peril.
The Arizona Department of Emergency and Military Affairs continues to coordinate with various agencies to support ongoing recovery efforts and assess infrastructure damage.
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