150 Havasupai Families Evacuated Due to Devastating Flash Flooding in Grand Canyon

The Havasupai Reservation has been severely impacted by recent flash flooding that struck Havasupai Creek, claiming the life of one woman and stranding numerous hikers. A week has passed since the disaster, and the community is pulling together to aid tribal members affected by the storm.

Mercy Worldwide Arizona reports that approximately 150 families, averaging four members each, have been displaced. The flooding caused extensive damage to 12 homes and disrupted the tribe’s only access routes, which are typically traversed by foot, horseback, or mule.

Chas Jordan, Director of Mercy Worldwide Arizona, emphasized the organization’s commitment to providing support by collaborating closely with the Havasupai Tribe’s leadership. The focus is on addressing the urgent needs of the affected community.

In response to the disaster, Mercy Worldwide has initiated donation collection efforts at various locations, including the Arizona Career Development Center in Phoenix and four additional sites in Tucson.

The Havasupai Tribe’s official website issued a statement outlining the situation, detailing the damage to the main trail leading to Supai Village, local trails, several homes, and essential utilities. The Tribe expressed appreciation for the generous offers of assistance during this crisis.

Individuals wishing to contribute can drop off donations at several locations in Phoenix and Tucson. Here’s a breakdown of the drop-off sites:

Phoenix MERCY Drop-off Locations:

• Arizona Career Development Center: 1414 W Broadway Rd Suite 113, Tempe, AZ 85282 (Thu-Sat: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM)
• Phoenix International Christian Church: 5902 E. Camelback Rd., Phoenix, AZ 85018 (Sunday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM)

Tucson MERCY Drop-off Locations:

• Harvill Building Room 150: 1103 E Second St, Tucson, AZ 85719 (Sunday: 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM)
• Ybarra Household (front yard): 1227 N Tucson Blvd (Thu-Fri: 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM; Sat: All day; Sun: 1:30 PM – 6:00 PM)
• Marley Building Room 432: 1145 E Fourth St Unit 107 (Thu-Fri: Business hours; Sat-Sun: 3:00 PM – 5:00 PM)
• Native American Student Association, Nugent Building: 1200 E University Blvd, Tucson, AZ 85721 (Thu-Fri: Business hours; Sat-Sun: 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM)

Donations are encouraged to include items such as:

• Pet supplies (dog and cat food)
• Equine care items (horse feed)
• Tools for cleanup and reconstruction (wheelbarrows, shovels, rakes, buckets, etc.)
• Cleaning supplies (mops, buckets, chemicals)
• Safety equipment (reflective vests, safety glasses, gloves)
• Bedding items (blankets, towels, raincoats)
• Clothing for all sizes
• Basic hygiene products

For further details about how to support the relief efforts, visit the Havasupai Tribe’s website.