Wildfires Force Evacuations and Closure of North Rim at Grand Canyon
 July 13, 2025
Grand Canyon National Par

Wildfires Force Evacuations and Closure of North Rim at Grand Canyon July 13, 2025 Grand Canyon National Par

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đź“° Wildfires Force Evacuations and Closure of North Rim at Grand Canyon
🗓️ July 13, 2025
📍Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona

đź“„ Wildfires raging in the northern region of Grand Canyon National Park have forced the closure of the North Rim and prompted emergency evacuations, as authorities race to contain the expanding blaze under extreme weather conditions.

On July 13 (local time), park officials announced the immediate closure of the North Rim due to the ongoing threat from two separate wildfires that have been burning for days. Fire crews reported that chlorine gas used in the park’s wastewater treatment system was released the day prior when fire engulfed part of the facility.

The National Park Service warned that the gas, heavier than air, could settle in the canyon and pose a health risk to visitors. Swift evacuation orders were issued, and public access to the affected area was suspended indefinitely.

The effort to contain the fires has been further complicated by an intense heat wave, with temperatures soaring to 46°C (114°F). The high temperatures and dry conditions have significantly hindered firefighting operations.

Between 50 and 80 structures, including the historic Grand Canyon Lodge at the North Rim, were reportedly destroyed overnight. No injuries or fatalities have been reported so far.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Land Management’s fire tracking system, the “Dragon Bravo” wildfire was initially ignited by a lightning strike on June 4. Though nearly contained in the early days, it reignited on June 11 due to high winds and has intensified rapidly.

As of this afternoon, the Dragon Bravo fire has burned an estimated 20 square kilometers. Meanwhile, another fire known as “White Sage,” also sparked by lightning on June 9, has consumed approximately 56 square kilometers and continues to expand—bringing the total affected area to over 163 square kilometers.

Evacuation orders are now in place for residents in impacted zones of Coconino County as the fires approach inhabited areas.

The dual wildfire threat at Grand Canyon National Park underscores the growing volatility of the U.S. West’s fire season, driven by heat extremes and climate-related dryness. If temperatures persist and wind patterns remain unfavorable, fire crews may struggle to contain the spread before more cultural landmarks and natural habitats are lost. The risk of chemical exposure from damaged infrastructure also raises concerns over long-term environmental and health impacts.

🔗 Reported from Flagstaff, Arizona – World News Climate Desk


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