India, July 14 -- The historic Grand Canyon Lodge, the only lodging on the North Rim, was destroyed by the Dragon Bravo Fire Sunday, alongside 50-80 structures, including the visitor center, gas station, wastewater treatment plant, and employee housing, park Superintendent Ed Keable confirmed. Officials said that the fire was initially controlled but grew after a lightning strike. It spread to 5,000 acres due to high temperatures, low humidity, and winds.

A chlorine gas leak from the burned wastewater plant forced evacuations of firefighters and hikers, with photos showing smoke and devastation. The lodge's first photos were posted on social media by locals.

The Dragon Bravo Fire, distinct from the nearby White Sage Fire (40,000 acres, ...