A woman from Gilbert, Arizona, remains missing after flash floods swept through Havasu Creek in Grand Canyon National Park during her hike this week.
The flooding began around 1:30 p.m. on Thursday, leaving several hikers stranded, including 33-year-old Chenoa Nickerson. As of Friday, Nickerson was still missing, and park officials confirmed she was not wearing a life jacket at the time of the incident.
“We remain hopeful for her safe return. Her husband, Andrew, has been rescued and is safe. We love her dearly and are not giving up hope,” said Nickerson’s sister, Tamara Morales, in a statement to Phoenix’s KNXV-TV.
In response to the flooding, the Havasupai tribe, who manage tourism near the park, closed the trail to the village of Supai until Sunday. The tribe is assisting in evacuating tourists and hikers impacted by the floods, according to a Facebook post.
“We had to cross many water crossings, and several bridges were washed out, but we made it back. The tribe allowed us to stay in one of their buildings,” stranded hiker Latricia Mimbs told Phoenix’s KSAZ-TV. As of Friday night, over 100 people still needed to be airlifted out of the Grand Canyon.
Arizona Governor Katie Hobbs has activated the Arizona National Guard to help evacuate those affected by the flash floods.
“My thoughts are with everyone affected by the flooding in Havasupai, including tribal members and visitors. I will continue to work closely with leaders on the ground to support the Havasupai community,” Governor Hobbs told KPHO-TV.
