Dozens evacuated from Grand Canyon after flash flood hits creek leading to the Colorado River

FLAGSTAFF, Ariz. (AP) — A powerful flash flood at the Grand Canyon compelled the evacuation of numerous individuals and carried sizable boulders, metal fixtures and other detritus into the Colorado River that cuts through it, according to the National Park Service. The deluge in Bright Angel Creek, which merges into the river, transpired on a Saturday afternoon.

A deluge of water demolished footbridges over the creek and drastically reshaped the terrain, enlarging the creek bed and forming what seemed to be a fresh river rapid. The park service expressed its quest for information regarding more than 20 individuals potentially missing or unaccounted for subsequent to the flood and solicited assistance from anyone possessing insights about hikers or campers in the vicinity.

They disclosed plans to continue evacuations on Sunday in collaboration with the Arizona Department of Public Safety. "This underscores the dynamic and active nature of the Grand Canyon landscape," remarked Jack Schmidt, director of the Center for Colorado River Studies at Utah State University. Iconic tourist destinations such as the Bright Angel Campground, Phantom Ranch, and segments of the North Kaibab trail remained inaccessible on Sunday as park officials assessed the damage.

Rafting excursions along the Colorado River were likewise suspended for the time being. Over 60 individuals were evacuated from Phantom Ranch, a historic canteen and dormitory often utilized by rafters to disembark and embark on the river. Additional evacuations were anticipated on Sunday, the park announced. No casualties have been reported.

Erica Viola recounted that she was present at Bright Angel Campground when the rain commenced on Saturday afternoon, and she and approximately 50 fellow hikers observed the creek swell and subsequently debris commence its flow, including what appeared to be a bunkhouse. The group was airlifted to safety, concluding their excursion two days prematurely.