PHOENIX, July 14 (V7N) — The iconic Grand Canyon Lodge on the North Rim has been destroyed by a wildfire, according to Grand Canyon National Park officials. The fire, which has already caused significant damage, prompted evacuations and raised serious concerns over air quality in the area.

By July 13, two wildfires, burning about 30 miles apart north of the Grand Canyon, had grown to cover over 45,000 acres. The Grand Canyon Lodge, which opened in 1937 and was the only hotel located within the North Rim of the national park, was devastated in the blaze.

Located approximately five-and-a-half hours north of Phoenix, the lodge served as a vital accommodation point for visitors to the park. The wildfire has also scorched between 50 and 80 structures on the North Rim, further compounding the destruction.

The fires, fueled by dry conditions and high winds, continue to threaten more areas within the park, forcing further evacuations. As emergency response teams work to contain the flames, authorities have warned of hazardous air quality due to smoke from the ongoing fires, which is drifting into surrounding communities.

Officials Responding to Growing Threat

Federal and state fire teams have been working tirelessly to battle the wildfires. However, with the fires spread across such a large area, containment efforts have faced challenges. The ongoing flames have raised additional concerns about the safety of both residents and tourists in the area.

Local authorities continue to issue air quality warnings, advising residents to limit outdoor activities and take precautions to avoid exposure to smoke.

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