A wildfire on the North Rim of the Grand Canyon National Park has led to the release of chlorine gas following a blaze that reached the park's water treatment facility. Reported by ABC15, the incident occurred last Saturday after the Dragon Bravo Fire intensified, posing a double threat to the region.
As the flames engulfed nearby structures, the fire claimed the Grand Canyon Lodge and a number of historic cabins, delivering a blow to the park's heritage. After first responding to the fire on Friday, a sudden gust of wind on July 11 enabled the fire to jump containment lines. This information comes courtesy of Live Science, which also noted that the fire's expansion was extraordinarily rapid, with an increase of 500 acres (0.8 square miles) being reported on Saturday.
Authorities responded promptly to the chlorine gas leak, evacuating firefighters from the North Rim and clearing hikers from danger zones. Park officials hastily advised all Colorado River trips to steer clear of Phantom Ranch. The affected trails, including the North Kaibab Trail, Phantom Ranch, and South Kaibab Trail, are currently closed to the public while the site is under assessment.
Adding to the disaster, a second wildfire, the White Sage Fire, is wreaking havoc 35 miles north of the initial blaze. According to the National Park Service, "Preliminary assessments indicate that between 50 to 80 structures have been lost, including NPS administrative buildings and visitor facilities." Live Science reported that despite the rapid escalation, no injuries or loss of life occurred as all staff and residents had been evacuated.
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) is currently monitoring the spread of the toxic gas, as chlorine gas is highly toxic and settles in low areas due to being heavier than air. While it poses no immediate risk to nearby communities, some residents in Marble Canyon, Lees Ferry, and parts of the Navajo Nation may notice a chlorine scent, as noted by ABC15. Authorities are working on providing updates as they come, urging the public to heed closures and park advisories.
