Tragic Loss: Arizona Hiker Dies in Grand Canyon Flash Flood, Dozens Rescued and Evacuated

August 24, 2024
Tragic Loss: Arizona Hiker Dies in Grand Canyon Flash Flood, Dozens Rescued and Evacuated
  • Chenoa Nickerson, a 33-year-old hiker from Gilbert, Arizona, tragically lost her life during a flash flood at Grand Canyon National Park.

  • Nickerson was swept into Havasu Creek around 1:30 p.m. on Thursday while hiking, and she was not wearing a life jacket.

  • Her husband was rescued by a rafting group, but Nickerson went missing after the incident.

  • Search teams discovered Nickerson's body on Sunday morning, approximately 19 miles downstream from where she was last seen.

  • The flash flood also trapped several other hikers, prompting extensive rescue efforts that began shortly after the flood.

  • In response to the flooding, Arizona Governor Katie Hobbs activated the National Guard to assist with evacuations using helicopters.

  • The National Park Service is conducting an investigation into the circumstances surrounding Nickerson's death.

  • Nickerson's family expressed deep grief and gratitude towards the first responders and the National Park Service Search and Rescue team.

  • The Havasupai Tribal Council has closed trails leading to the reservation and requested that visitors refrain from coming through for safety reasons.

  • Approximately 104 people, including tribal members and tourists, have been evacuated from the Havasupai Falls area due to the flooding.

  • At the time of her disappearance, Nickerson was described as a brunette with blue eyes, last seen wearing a black tank top, shorts, and blue hiking boots.

  • The National Park Service is collaborating with the Havasupai Tribe to coordinate ongoing rescue efforts and ensure the safety of everyone involved.

Summary based on 16 sources


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