Kayaker Killed on Lake Powell

PAGE, Ariz. – A Canadian woman was killed Tuesday afternoon when her kayak

overturned in Padre Bay on Lake Powell.  Michele Melik, of Edmonton,
Alberta, was kayaking about 100 yards offshore with a friend when heavy
winds and 4-foot swells on Lake Powell caused her boat to capsize.

Melik’s friend’s boat also capsized, although he was able to safely swim to
shore.   He could not rescue Melik because of the dangerous water conditions and lost track of her in the weather and confusion.

Melik’s 15-year old son was nearby in camp while the incident was
occurring.  The two spent Tuesday night along the shore of Lake Powell near
Dominguez Butte.

On Wednesday morning, they flagged down a passing boat, operated by the
park concessioner Aramark.  The captain of the boat notified National Park Service rangers, who immediately responded to search for Melik by boat.

Glen Canyon National Recreation Area’s aircraft also began an aerial search
of the area.  Melik’s body was found by the park aircraft at approximately 12:30 pm.

Winds were strong yesterday with storms blowing across the region.  Gusts
at Wahweap Marina exceeded 45 mph at times.