Search underway for woman swept away in floodwaters in Grand Canyon

COCONINO COUNTY, Ariz. (KPHO/Gray News) - Officials at the Grand Canyon say a search is underway to find a missing woman who was swept away in floodwaters.

According to the National Park Service, a flash flood struck Havasu Creek on Thursday around 1:30 p.m.

Family members said 33-year-old Chenoa Nickerson and her husband were hiking in the Havasupai area when the flash flood struck, separating the couple.

Several hikers were stranded in the area, and officials said Nickerson was swept into Havasu Creek about half a mile above the Colorado River.

She was not wearing a life jacket.

Family members said Nickerson’s husband was later found by rafters.

Nickerson is described as a 5-foot-8 woman, weighing about 190 pounds with brown hair, blue eyes and tattoos.

Anyone with information regarding Nickerson’s whereabouts has been urged to contact the National Park Service Tip Line at 888-653-0009.

The Havasupai Tribe Tourism Office said the Supai area is closed through Sunday. The Tribal Council asked anyone with reservations not to come, as no one will be allowed access to the area.

The Supai area gives access to the popular Havasu Falls swimming area.

“If you hear the flood waters approaching or if you are caught in a rainstorm, climb to high ground immediately and wait until it clears. Do not enter the narrow part of the canyon where you might not be able to climb the canyon walls in the event of an unexpected flood,” the tribal tourism office shared.

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