Grand Canyon Flash Flooding Claims Life of Hiker
Chenoa Nickerson’s Body Found After Four Days
Sunday marked a tragic day for hikers and nature lovers, following the discovery of 33-year-old Chenoa Nickerson’s body along the Colorado River in the Grand Canyon National Park. Flash floods that instigated extensive rescue operations claimed the life of the seasoned hiker. Nickerson was swept away by the inclement weather into Havasu Creek, trailing her disappearance last Thursday.
Rescue Efforts and Discovery
A commercial river trip group made the heartrending discovery near mile 176 of the Colorado River. The joint efforts of the National Park Service and the Coconino County medical examiner are underway to investigate the circumstances.
Flood Impact and Evacuation
Aside from claiming a life, the consequential flooding led to the evacuation of 104 tourists and tribal members from the Grand Canyon park. A UH-60 Blackhawk helicopter facilitated the evacuation operation, which involved tribal members and tourists stranded in a canyon belonging to the Havasupai Tribe within the park.
Flash floods provoked by Thursday’s monsoon storms led local authorities to close off the area to tourists, triggering emergency evacuations. The Havasupai Tribal Council also disclosed the closure of Supai, a remote village nestled 8 miles beneath the rim of the Grand Canyon.
Survivors’ Account
Among those who escaped the life-threatening floods were a North Carolina couple. On their hiking journey within the Havasupai Indian Reservation, they had no inkling of the disastrous weather condition ahead. They took refuge in a cove during the rain, unwitting of the impending danger. A Native American on a mule spotted them, warning of the imminent danger and advised that they seek higher ground.
Reacting to the urgency in his tone, they hustled to a higher elevation, trusting their instincts. The downpour transitioned into a harrowing three-hour struggle, as they crossed water bodies, formed human chains, and fought their way through prickly vegetation.
Following their grueling journey, they successfully reached the nearest village. Their rescue was facilitated by the National Guard on Saturday morning, marking their survival amidst nature’s fury.
Forecast and Measures
With no rain predicted for the area in the coming days, it is hoped that the weather will stabilize, allowing for the continuation of rescue operations. The tragic loss mandates an update in the safety measures to ensure hiker safety against harsh weather conditions. While the beauty of nature beckons many, it reminds us all the importance of vigilance and preparedness when venturing into unchartered territories.
