An out-of-control wildfire is sweeping through the Grand Canyon, devastating nearly 50,000 hectares and forcing the closure of the northern area to tourists.

The fire, dubbed the 'Dragon Bravo Fire', was sparked by lightning on July 4 and is being fought by more than a thousand firefighters, with just 13% under control. Although the southern area remains accessible, the fire has destroyed between 50 and 80 structures, including the Grand Canyon Lodge. The fire problem is compounded by budget cuts imposed by the Trump administration.