Grand Canyon National Park Update: Dragon Bravo Fire Causes Extensive Damage on North Rim

Grand Canyon National Park Update: Dragon Bravo Fire Causes Extensive Damage on North Rim

GRAND CANYON NATIONAL PARK — In a devastating turn of events, the Dragon Bravo Fire continues to rage on the North Rim of Grand Canyon National Park, exhibiting extreme fire behavior that led to a significant and destructive expansion the evening of July 12, 2025. The fire, which had already posed major concerns for fire officials, exploded by over 500 acres during the late-night hours due to volatile conditions and high winds.

At approximately 10:30 p.m., the blaze intensified dramatically, driven by sustained winds of 20 mph and gusts topping 40 mph. This escalation overwhelmed containment efforts and pushed the fire into the Grand Canyon Lodge area, tragically resulting in the loss of the historic Grand Canyon Lodge itself, along with numerous historic cabins and critical infrastructure in the developed area.

Firefighting teams worked throughout the night under hazardous and fast-evolving conditions in an effort to contain the inferno. Using aerial bucket drops, crews attempted to slow the fire’s spread, particularly near Transept Canyon and the lodge, where flames threatened iconic structures and sensitive terrain. However, a complicating factor emerged when a chlorine gas leak was detected at the water treatment facility, prompting an emergency evacuation of fire crews from key suppression zones. The chlorine leak made the use of aerial fire retardant in the area impossible during critical hours.

Preliminary damage assessments conducted early July 13 indicate a significant structural loss, with estimates ranging between 50 and 80 structures destroyed. These include a mix of National Park Service administrative buildings, visitor facilities, and historical properties cherished by generations of Grand Canyon visitors. Despite the extensive property loss, no injuries or fatalities have been reported, and all staff and residents were evacuated safely prior to the fire’s rapid escalation.

As of the morning of July 13, the Dragon Bravo Fire continues to exhibit very active behavior, driven by extremely hot temperatures, low relative humidity, and persistent wind gusts. The fire is being fought under a full suppression strategy, with ground crews, air support, and incident management teams mobilized to protect life, property, and the remaining undeveloped wilderness.

In response to the continued threat, fire managers initiated aerial retardant drops on the eastern side of the developed area, including the Roaring Springs drainage, to slow the fire’s advance and prevent further losses. Additional resources from surrounding regions, including elite hotshot crews, helicopter teams, and engine strike teams, have been deployed to the area.

The North Rim remains completely closed to the public, and officials have reiterated the danger of entering or approaching the fire zone. Smoke from the Dragon Bravo Fire is visible from miles away and may impact air quality in adjacent areas, including southern Utah and parts of the South Rim.

The loss of the Grand Canyon Lodge, an architectural and cultural landmark built in the 1920s and listed on the National Register of Historic Places, marks a significant blow not only to the park but to American heritage as a whole. Park officials, historians, and community members are already planning assessments for preservation of any salvageable materials and potential rebuilding efforts in the future.

Grand Canyon National Park Superintendent Sarah Davis issued a statement early this morning:

“This is a heartbreaking moment for our park, our staff, and everyone who treasures the Grand Canyon. While we are thankful that no lives were lost, the cultural and historical loss is profound. We are doing everything we can to fight this fire and protect what remains.”

Further updates on the Dragon Bravo Fire will be released as new information becomes available. The National Park Service, in coordination with the U.S. Forest Service and Bureau of Land Management, continues to monitor the situation around the clock. Evacuees and concerned residents are encouraged to follow official channels for real-time alerts and resources.

Public Safety Reminder: Visitors are urged to stay away from closed areas, follow air quality advisories, and avoid spreading misinformation. Fire weather conditions remain critical, and additional lightning or wind events could complicate suppression efforts in the coming days.

For the latest updates:

• Visit nps.gov/grca

• Follow @GrandCanyonNPS on social media

• Monitor InciWeb for fire updates: inciweb.nwcg.gov

Our thoughts are with the brave firefighters, park staff, and the Grand Canyon community during this challenging time.