Havasu Creek Flooding: Gilbert woman Chenoa Nickerson's body found, as emergency declared

Grand Canyon, Arizona: A state of emergency has been declared following severe flash flooding at Havasu Creek in the Grand Canyon, trapping hikers and campers and causing extensive damage to the area. Rescue operations are ongoing, with the Arizona National Guard deployed to assist in the evacuation of more than 100 individuals who were stranded by the flash floods.

The flooding, which struck on Thursday, has left one person still missing. Authorities have also reported that they have found the body of Gilbert woman Chenoa Nickerson, 33, who was reported missing Thursday following a flash flood that hit the Havasu Canyon.

The National Park Service had conducted a multi-day search and rescue operation before her body was discovered Sunday morning by park rangers, according to the release.are currently searching for 33-year-old Chenoa Nickerson, who was swept away by the floodwaters. The search and rescue operation is being conducted using UH-60 Black Hawk helicopters, which have successfully airlifted numerous stranded tourists to safety.

“The amount of thankfulness and excitement they had was palpable,” said a National Guard spokesperson. “They cheered when they were briefed, cheered when they boarded the aircraft, and cheered again when they safely disembarked.”

The flood caused significant damage to the Supai Village and surrounding areas. Abby Fink, a spokesperson for the Supai Village, reported that the trail into the village, as well as much of the common areas, had been severely affected. The campground, where most of the floodwater was concentrated, suffered the worst damage.

“The flood has made the area unsafe for visitors,” Fink told 12News. “Now that the tourists have been evacuated, we are focusing on repairing the damage and ensuring the safety of tribal members who remain.”

The Havasupai Tribe is working to assess the full extent of the damage and begin the rebuilding process. “This is devastating for the tribe,” Fink explained. “The Grand Canyon is their home, and while they are familiar with the risks posed by nature, this event has caused considerable concern.”

Efforts to rebuild the damaged infrastructure, including trails and buildings, are already under way, but tribal officials emphasize that it will take time to complete the necessary repairs. Meanwhile, the tribe is coordinating with various organizations to deliver supplies to the affected areas, despite the challenges posed by the damaged access routes.

“We’ve received an outpouring of support and are doing everything we can to ensure that supplies reach those in need,” Fink added.