At least 15 people are missing following flash floods in the famous Grand Canyon National Park in Arizona, USA. One person has died. The park’s Bright Angel Canyon and Phantom Ranch areas were the hardest hit after heavy rains on Saturday afternoon caused floodwaters to surge.
Following the floods, National Park authorities and the Arizona Department of Public Safety launched a joint rescue operation. By Sunday morning, more than 60 people had been airlifted to safety from deep within the canyon.
Authorities reported that nearly all pedestrian bridges over Bright Angel Creek were destroyed by the floodwaters. Boat traffic on the Colorado River has also been suspended until further notice due to metal structures and large amounts of debris washing into the river.
Phantom Ranch, Bright Angel Campground, the Phantom Ranch canteen and cabins, and a significant section of the North Kaibab Trail have been closed. Authorities are verifying whether the missing individuals include hikers, backpackers, or those with advance campground reservations who were in the area on Saturday.
Justin Johndrow, an official with the National Weather Service, stated that the area received between half an inch and an inch of rain in just about 30 minutes. Due to the steep, rocky terrain, rainwater rushed downwards rapidly, triggering severe flash flooding. Bright Angel Creek drops approximately 6,000 feet from the North Rim down to the Colorado River.
Authorities have indicated that further rain and thunderstorms are likely in the area through Monday, raising concerns about the risk of renewed flooding alongside ongoing rescue operations.
The Grand Canyon is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the United States. Authorities must remain constantly vigilant regarding tourist safety due to the rugged terrain, steep cliffs, and the risk of flash floods. Search operations are currently underway to locate the missing individuals.
