A flash flood at the Havasupai reservation recently turned idyllic azure waterfalls into a menacing brown froth, causing chaos and claiming the life of a hiker. The incident unfolded during the summer rainy season, which is common for the area. The remote reservation, located within the Grand Canyon, is a popular destination attracting visitors worldwide.

The torrent of water caught hundreds of hikers off guard, forcing them to seek safety on high ground, such as within the canyon walls’ nooks and caves. Unfortunately, one woman was swept away towards the Colorado River, sparking a multi-day search and rescue operation involving the National Park Service in the challenging, cellphone-inaccessible desert terrain accessible only by foot, mule, or helicopters.

The flash flood started after steady rain began while hikers were on an 8-mile trek along switchback trails towards the Havasupai village. Tourists typically visit the area for its majestic waterfalls and creek-side campground, a popular spot due to the area’s unique blue-green waters.

As the waters rose and turned muddy, chaos ensued, and hikers scrambled to safety. Distress calls were made to the Grand Canyon National Park authorities, initiating a search and rescue effort. While some hikers were rescued, others found themselves trapped in caves within the canyon walls as floodwaters raged through the area.

Havasupai Tribe officials expressed the usual nature of flash flooding during the monsoon season in the area and highlighted the difficulty of communication and evacuation in such situations due to the canyon’s narrowness. Despite the challenges, search and rescue operations were diligently carried out.

The Havasupai Tribe announced temporary suspension of tourist reservations to assess damages caused by the flood, including muddied campgrounds, washed-out bridges, and water-damaged homes. The tribe is seeking disaster aid from federal and state authorities and requesting donations for essential supplies to aid their community.