Wildfires Force Evacuation Grand Canyon North,South Rims

A severe wildfire emergency is unfolding in the Grand Canyon region, particularly affecting the North Rim area, where about 500 residents and visitors have been evacuated due to rapidly spreading fires fueled by dry conditions, hot weather, and strong winds. The main fire, known as the White Sage Fire, originated from lightning strikes and has expanded to thousands of hectares, prompting closures of the North Rim and surrounding communities. Authorities face extreme fire behavior that limits direct firefighting efforts, while air quality has deteriorated due to thick smoke, threatening both people and wildlife. In addition to the Grand Canyon, the nearby Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park in Colorado has also been evacuated because of wildfires sparked by lightning, underscoring the broader wildfire crisis in the western U.S. Despite the ongoing emergency, the South Rim of the Grand Canyon remains accessible, but concerns remain about the impact of these fires on tourism and local communities. Firefighting teams continue to use aerial retardants and ground crews to contain the fires while prioritizing the safety of all affected individuals.