Rising smoke from a fast-moving wildfire forced officials to evacuate about 500 visitors from the Grand Canyon’s North Rim on the night of July 10. The evacuation came after dark clouds settled over the area, prompting concern for those planning to stay overnight in the national park.
Employees and residents on the North Rim were told to shelter in place as emergency crews assessed the growing danger. The park closure is a precautionary move as fire conditions remain unstable.
According to the Bureau of Land Management spokesperson Rachel Carnahan, the fire began July 9 near Jacob Lake after a thunderstorm brought lightning and gusty winds. By July 11, the fire had burned 13.5 square miles and was 0% contained.
Jacob Lake Inn Evacuates Guests, Faces Financial Loss
The historic Jacob Lake Inn, located near the fire zone, was also evacuated. Owner Melinda Rich said they removed 75 employees and guests from the 102-year-old property. Some guests had just checked in when evacuation orders came from the sheriff’s office.
Rich noted that while the move was necessary, it has created a financial burden due to canceled bookings. “You also feel bad for the people who might be visiting the canyon for the first time,” she said.
She recalled a similar scare in 2020 when a wildfire came within 20 feet of cabins. That time, shifting winds spared the inn. This time, she said, the evacuations seem to be a precaution—but necessary.
Multiple Fires Across Western States Amid Lightning Strikes
In neighboring Colorado, a similar scene played out. The Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, located about 260 miles southwest of Denver, was fully closed due to wildfires ignited by lightning on both the north and south rims.
As of July 11, the north rim fire in Black Canyon was extinguished. However, the south rim blaze, which began July 10, had burned 2.5 square miles and remained uncontained.
Firefighters protected key structures, including the South Rim visitor center, by clearing dry brush and applying flame-retardant material. Aircraft also dropped fire retardant to support containment efforts.
Dry Conditions, Winds, and Lightning Fuel Danger
Officials say the wildfires are being driven by hot temperatures, dry vegetation, low humidity, and unpredictable winds. These are ideal conditions for rapid fire spread.
Although monsoon season runs from June to September and can bring rain, it also brings thunderstorms. Those storms often cause new wildfires through lightning strikes, even as they deliver brief moisture.
With ongoing drought across much of the western U.S., fire officials warn that risk remains high throughout the summer.
