How intense rains in the Grand Canyon turned into a deadly disaster
Flash flooding in Arizona tourist destination was likely triggered by compounding climate factors, such as drought and warming in Pacific Ocean
TL;DR
- Flash flooding is a risk in the Grand Canyon during the monsoon season, exacerbated by the canyon's steep, rocky nature.
- Recent floods were compounded by the burn scar of the Dragon Bravo wildfire, which reduces vegetation and speeds up runoff.
- Federal models indicated increased debris flow risks in Bright Angel Creek following the wildfire.
- Park officials were concerned about dangerous conditions near burned areas due to stronger storms.
- Compound extremes, where multiple climate factors converge, are on the rise.
- A severe drought in the region and warming sea surface temperatures in the Pacific Ocean due to El Niño likely contributed to the disaster.
- Short-term intense downpours in the US West have become stronger since 2000, linked to human-caused climate change.