Grand Canyon Lodge, National Park Service
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The destruction caused by this fire is a reminder of how vulnerable our national parks and residents nearby are to the impacts of a changing climate. NPCA stands ready to support efforts to rebuild and restore what’s been lost and ensure the National Park Service has the resources it needs to protect the Grand Canyon experience for the millions of visitors who travel there each year.
"Though it was definitely not your average vacation trip, everything worked out okay. We made the best of it," Russ Christian said.
A combination of high winds, dry air and above average temperatures caused a wildfire in the Grand Canyon to rapidly expand and cause major damage.
The NWS warning was in effect for regions of the Grand Canyon below 4,000 feet elevation. Temperatures were forecast to potentially reach 110 degrees at Phantom Ranch and 102 at Havasupai Gardens.
A hiker has died on the South Kaibab Trail in the Grand Canyon National Park while attempting to reach the Colorado River.