At least 20 missing, dozens evacuated from Grand Canyon after flash flood hits creek

At least 20 individuals may be missing following a flash flood at the Grand Canyon, according to the US National Park Service. The evacuation of dozens of people occurred after the flood on Saturday afternoon, which also swept away boulders, metal structures, and other debris into the Colorado River that runs through the park. Bright Angel Creek, which flows into the river, saw torrents of water, destroying footbridges and altering the landscape significantly.

The park service is seeking information about the missing people and is collaborating with the Arizona Department of Public Safety for ongoing evacuations on Sunday. Popular tourist destinations, including Bright Angel Campground, Phantom Ranch, and sections of the North Kaibab trail, remain closed as park officials assess the damage.

Rafting trips on the Colorado River have been halted. Over 60 people were evacuated from Phantom Ranch, a common spot for river access, and additional evacuations are planned for Sunday. Despite the incident, no injuries have been reported. Witnesses described watching the water rise and debris flow by, with one group being evacuated by helicopter.

National Weather Service meteorologist Justin Johndrow stated that the flooding occurred on the north side of the Grand Canyon, near Bright Angel Creek's origin point at the North Rim, where it descends around 828 meters before reaching the Colorado River. Further rain and thunderstorms are possible in the area into Monday.