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Arizona wildfires and extreme heat prompt evacuations near Grand Canyon

July 12, 2025

The White Sage Fire, a lightning-sparked wildfire northwest of Grand Canyon National Park in Arizona, has burned approximately 10,900 acres and remains completely uncontained, forcing the closure of the park's North Rim and evacuations of area residents. Approximately 500 guests were successfully evacuated from the North Rim as the fire spread toward Jacob Lake amid dangerous conditions created by high temperatures, gusty winds, and dry vegetation. Emergency responders have been fighting the fire both on the ground and from the air since Wednesday, while officials issued an extreme heat warning with temperatures expected to reach up to 115°F (46°C).

Who is affected

  • Residents in the Jacob Lake area under evacuation orders
  • Approximately 500 guests evacuated from the North Rim of Grand Canyon National Park
  • Visitors to the Grand Canyon National Park
  • Drivers using State Route 89A
  • Staff and visitors at Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park in Colorado
  • A 67-year-old hiker from Texas who died on Tuesday in the Grand Canyon (though unrelated to the fire)

What action is being taken

  • Emergency responders are battling the flames from both ground and air
  • Park officials are evacuating visitors and residents from affected areas
  • State Route 89A has been closed until further notice
  • Officials have issued an extreme heat warning
  • The Upper Colorado River Interagency Fire Management Unit is responding to approximately 10 wildfires caused by lightning

Why it matters

  • The uncontained wildfire threatens human safety, requiring immediate evacuations
  • The North Rim of Grand Canyon National Park, a major tourist destination, is closed
  • Dangerous conditions with high temperatures up to 115°F (46°C) compound the fire risk
  • Transportation is disrupted with highway closures causing extended delays
  • The wildfire situation extends beyond Arizona, affecting multiple states and national parks

What's next

  • No explicit next steps stated in the article

Read full article from source: BBC