Wildfire at US national park leave historic Grand Canyon lodge burned to ashes

Wildfire at US national park leave historic Grand Canyon lodge burned to ashes
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Wildfires have destroyed the historic Grand Canyon Lodge and 50 to 80 other structures on the North Rim of Arizona’s Grand Canyon National Park, Al Jazeera reported. The Dragon Bravo Fire, started by lightning on July 4, grew rapidly due to hot weather, low humidity, and strong winds. The fire forced closure and evacuation of the North Rim for the season. Along with the lodge, a visitor center, petrol station, wastewater treatment plant, administrative building, and employee housing were lost. No injuries have been reported.

Arizona Governor Katie Hobbs called for a federal investigation into the National Park Service’s handling of the fire, demanding aggressive action to prevent further damage. The lodge, operated by Aramark, was a historic and iconic feature of the park, often the first sight visitors saw before viewing the canyon. All employees and guests were safely evacuated.

Firefighters and hikers were also evacuated due to fire risks and potential exposure to chlorine gas from the burning treatment plant. The Grand Canyon, a natural wonder carved by the Colorado River, attracts nearly five million visitors annually, mostly to the South Rim. The North Rim remains closed for the season as authorities continue to manage the wildfire threat.