In a somber development at Grand Canyon National Park, authorities recovered the body of Chenoa Nickerson, a 33-year-old Arizona woman, on August 25, 2024. The discovery came three days after a devastating flash flood swept through the area, forcing the evacuation of more than 100 individuals from nearby tribal lands.
The National Park Service reported that a commercial river expedition located Nickerson's body in the Colorado River around 11:30 a.m. local time. Park rangers retrieved the remains, which were then transported to the Coconino County Medical Examiner for further examination.
Tamara Morales, Nickerson's sister, expressed gratitude towards the search and rescue teams for their efforts. She stated, "Our hearts are heavy with grief," emphasizing that her sister's memory would be honored by carrying forward the joy and love she brought into their lives.
The flash flood event unfolded on August 22, 2024, in Havasu Canyon, a tributary on the Colorado River's south side where the Havasupai Indian Reservation is situated. Nickerson was last seen approximately 100 yards above the confluence of Havasu Creek and the Colorado River.
The National Weather Service in Flagstaff had issued a flash flood watch on August 21, followed by a more urgent warning around noon the next day. Megan Taylor, a lead meteorologist, emphasized the importance of immediate action when such warnings are issued.
The flooding trapped numerous visitors at various points along the popular hiking trail and near Havasu Falls. The Havasupai tribe reported extensive damage to their homeland, a frequented hiking destination bordering Grand Canyon National Park. As a result, the area has been closed to tourists indefinitely.
"The trail into Supai and to the campground and falls are unpassable, the damage to the campground is extensive."
Due to the challenging terrain and the large number of people requiring assistance, Arizona Governor Katie Hobbs activated the Arizona National Guard on August 23. A Black Hawk helicopter conducted 10 flights, evacuating 104 individuals, including Nickerson's husband.
The incident highlights the risks associated with flash floods in the Grand Canyon area, particularly during the monsoon season from June through September. The National Park Service describes parts of the Havasupai land as a "fragile environment" prone to flash floods, with some areas still off-limits due to damage from previous floods in 2018, 2019, and 2022.
Safety experts stress the importance of checking weather forecasts, being prepared for sudden changes, and knowing how to react in case of a flash flood. Sarah Martin, Rocky Mountain campus director at the National Outdoor Leadership School, advises adopting protective practices similar to those used by river rafters if caught in a powerful water flow.
This tragic event serves as a stark reminder of nature's unpredictability and the need for vigilance when exploring the Grand Canyon's breathtaking but potentially hazardous landscape. As one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, the Grand Canyon attracts over 5 million visitors annually, making safety awareness crucial for all who venture into this majestic but sometimes perilous environment.