Grand Canyon warning system proposed

FLAGSTAFF, Ariz., Sept. 3 (UPI) -- Flooding at an Arizona Indian reservation popular with Grand Canyon tourists has prompted officials to revive a proposal to install an early warning system.

At least 16 major floods have coursed through the Havasupai Indian Reservation in the last 100 years including one on Aug. 16 that sent hundreds of tourists scrambling for their lives, The New York Times reported Wednesday.

A heavy thunderstorm sparked surges of high water in Havasu Creek, destroying a campground and setting off a massive mudslide that obliterated Navajo Falls.

No deaths or serious injuries were reported but campers said they spent a terrifying night riding out the flood.

As a result, Gov. Janet Napolitano of Arizona said she is encouraging state, county and federal agencies to develop plans for building and maintaining an early warning system.

Such a system was first proposed by the U.S. Geological Survey in 1995 but was scrapped due to lack of funds.