Grand Canyon Wildfires Force Park Closures, Destroy Historic Lodge

Fire crews are battling two intense wildfires at the Grand Canyon’s North Rim that have already destroyed dozens of structures, including the historic Grand Canyon Lodge.

NBC’s Steve Patterson reports the fires have forced the closure of the park’s North Rim area for the remainder of the season. “The air is thick… it’s stinging my eyes… you can feel it in the air,” Patterson said while reporting live from the South Rim.

According to park officials, 50 to 80 structures have been lost in the fires so far, including the lodge built nearly a century ago, as well as homes belonging to park staff. Around 50 park employees have been evacuated.

Crews are battling the flames both on the ground and from the air, but heavy smoke, rugged terrain, and gusty winds are making conditions extremely difficult.

As of Monday evening, there was no containment estimate available for the fires. Park officials urge visitors to avoid the North Rim area and check for updates before planning trips.

Explore: NBCPalmSprings.com, where we are connecting the Valley.