Grand Canyon’s North Rim Turns Into Megafire, Creates Its Own Weather
The Dragon Bravo Fire on the North Rim of the Grand Canyon has grown into a “megafire,” now covering over 164 square miles, making it the largest wildfire in the U.S. The blaze, ignited by lightning on July 4, 2025, has destroyed around 70 structures, including the iconic Grand Canyon Lodge. The North Rim will remain closed for the rest of the 2025 season. The fire’s intensity has caused the formation of pyrocumulus clouds, which can generate their own weather systems, complicating firefighting efforts and posing additional risks to surrounding areas. With temperatures in the region set to exceed 113°F, the fire’s impact continues to escalate.