Search Continues for Gilbert Woman Swept Away in Grand Canyon Flash Flood
The search and rescue mission in Grand Canyon National Park is ongoing and may extend into the weekend as efforts continue to locate a Gilbert woman swept away in a powerful flash flood while hiking in Havasu Canyon.
Chenoa Nickerson and her husband were caught by surprise as they hiked half a mile above the Colorado River confluence, and were swept away by fast-moving flood waters. While Nickerson’s husband was rescued by rafters, the search for the 33-year-old woman continues.
“We love her and we won’t give up until we find her,” expressed Nickerson’s brother, Janosh Wolters, in an interview with 12News.
Meanwhile, as rescue teams scour the area for Nickerson, hundreds of stranded campers upstream are awaiting evacuation. Around 60 individuals are still stranded as of Saturday afternoon, with officials working to evacuate them within the next few hours.
Latricia Mimbs, a visitor from Mississippi, shared her harrowing experience of escaping the flood by heading to high ground upon hearing thunder. The once turquoise waterfalls turned brown as the flood rushed through the campground, causing damage but thankfully no loss of life.
Many hikers and campers are currently unable to leave the area due to parts of the trail being impassable. The Havasupai tribe is providing food and water to the stranded campers, as efforts are made to airlift them out of the affected area.
Despite the challenges faced, Mimbs remains hopeful for a safe resolution and continues to pray for the well-being of those affected by the flash flood.
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