Grand Canyon National Park has adjusted the size and location of potable water storage tanks throughout Grand Canyon Village as residents continue dealing with a water emergency caused by recent flash flooding in Bright Angel Canyon.

The Bright Angel Flash Flood Incident Management Team said 16 potable water tanks are now positioned throughout the South Rim community, providing approximately 15,000 gallons of drinking water.

While the overall amount of water stored in the community tanks has been reduced, park officials said the supply remains well above average daily use of approximately 6,000 gallons.

The tanks were inspected when delivered and are required to meet drinking-water standards. They will be tested and refilled regularly, with a hose installed at each tank after it is filled. The updated system is expected to be fully in place by Monday.

Potable water tanks are located at Randy Thompson Circle, Sunset Drive, Paiute Circle, Mohave Drive, Pima Street, Grand Canyon School District, Coconino Street, Bright Angel Trailhead, Supai Camp, the Facilities Management Division complex on Shuttlebus Road, Grand Canyon Visitor Center Lot 4, Trailer Village entrance, Mather Campground entrance, South Kaibab Trailhead, north of the Desert View main parking lot and the Desert View housing area. The National Park Service's current community recovery page confirms those 16 locations and says residents can access the tanks 24 hours a day. 

Locations could be adjusted again depending on water use and community feedback, although officials said any changes would continue serving the same general areas.

The emergency follows the Aug. 29 flash flood that heavily damaged Grand Canyon's water infrastructure. The flood destroyed a water intake and damaged roughly 40% of the old Transcanyon Waterline between the Phantom Ranch area and North Rim. A second flash flood Sept. 16 damaged temporary water infrastructure being constructed as part of the recovery effort. 

Park officials have tentatively projected that pumping from the Bright Angel Creek intake to the new South Rim water treatment plant could begin by Nov. 16, with water distribution to residents potentially beginning around Thanksgiving. Those dates remain subject to construction progress and other conditions. National Park Service

Portable restrooms, handwashing stations, showers and laundry facilities remain available, and residents are being asked to continue following Stage 4 water conservation requirements.