Flash flooding causes major damage to the Grand Canyon’s critical water pipeline
Summary
Flash flooding over the weekend badly damaged the main water pipeline that supplies water to millions of visitors at the Grand Canyon. The pipeline, which has broken many times before, now requires complex repairs, and water use on the South Rim is being limited to protect remaining supplies.Key Facts
- Flash floods caused major damage to about 40% of the Grand Canyon’s main water pipeline.
- The damaged pipeline supplies water to millions of visitors and year-round residents.
- The pipeline is 12.5 miles (20 kilometers) long and crosses difficult terrain, making repairs hard.
- The pipeline has broken more than 85 times since 2010.
- A costly $200 million repair and replacement project started in 2023 before the floods.
- Floods killed at least two people, left more than a dozen missing, and led to evacuations of more than 60 people.
- Water use is now restricted at the South Rim, with requests for short showers and selective toilet flushing.
- The upgrade project changed pipeline materials to balance weight and durability and included building helicopter pads and water treatment facilities.
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