With a regional fireworks ban on Independence Day due to the risk of forest fires, it wasn’t hard for the 5th of July to steal the show. And so it did, with the South Rim’s first measurable rain in months. The opening act to this year’s monsoon drenched the canyon from rim to rim. The soaking had locals grinning from ear-to-ear; the elk, deer, birds, and other critters seemed equally joyful.
This pattern of afternoon showers tends to last through August during a good year. Fingers are crossed for same as the forests are exceptionally dry. This weather phenomenon does come with a price. Be sure to exercise caution in narrow places as flash floods can whistle through with little notice. So be safe, and enjoy the rejuvenating drops from the heavens.