Turquoise Havasu Falls Reemerge Just Days After Devastating Flash Floods

SUPAI, Ariz. — The stunning blue-green waters of Havasu Falls have made a remarkable return just one week after significant flash flooding swept through Havasu Canyon, causing widespread devastation. The Havasupai Tribe Tourism Facebook page recently shared three images showcasing the waterfall’s restoration to its original beauty.

The flash floods turned Havasu Creek into a torrent of dark brown water. Tragically, the flooding resulted in the death of one woman, Chenoa Nickerson, as she and her husband from Gilbert attempted to navigate the treacherous conditions. While her husband was rescued by a group of rafters, Nickerson was not found until days later, her body discovered 20 miles downriver.

In the aftermath, the Arizona National Guard conducted successful rescue operations, helping to evacuate over 100 individuals stranded due to damage along Havasupai Creek. Abbie Fink, a spokesperson for the Havasupai Tribe, reported extensive destruction, particularly affecting the trail leading into Supai and various public facilities in the village.

“The campground suffered considerable damage,” Fink noted, emphasizing the dangers present in the area. She confirmed that tribal members remain safe within the community. Emergency services are now focused on delivering essential supplies to those still residing in Supai.

Fink also mentioned ongoing evaluations of the damages, stating, “We have to ensure the safety of all the infrastructure, for the trails, for the buildings, everything that needs to be evaluated. That’s going to take some time, and we want to make sure we take the right amount of time to make sure that we do it correctly.”

The focus now shifts to recovery efforts and rebuilding the community after this unexpected natural disaster.