Flash flooding in Grand Canyon leaves more than 20 people missing

On Saturday, a significant flash flood struck the Grand Canyon in Arizona, causing extensive damage in the Bright Angel region. The National Park Service (NPS) is seeking public assistance to locate hikers, backpackers, and campers who were in the impacted areas when the flood occurred. Initial reports suggest that up to 20 people may be missing or unaccounted for, though the exact figure remains unclear.

The flash flood occurred around 2:30pm local time, severely impacting infrastructure within Bright Angel Canyon. Nearly all footbridges were destroyed, rendering access to the creek nearly impossible for hikers. As a result, at least 62 individuals were evacuated by air on Sunday morning. Additional evacuations are ongoing from Cottonwood Campground, Phantom Ranch, and surrounding areas.

No injuries have been reported among those evacuated, with the evacuees being taken to the Maswik Lodge Cafeteria on the South Rim, where the American Red Cross is providing assistance. The affected sites, including Phantom Ranch, Bright Angel Campground, the Phantom Ranch Canteen, cabins, and the North Kaibab Trail, have been closed indefinitely. The Black Bridge and Silver Bridge over the Colorado River are also closed until further notice, with no estimated reopening date.

The Colorado River itself is closed due to debris and metal structures. The NPS has emphasized the necessity of staying away from the closed zones, urging the public to avoid the impacted areas. Anyone with information regarding missing hikers or individuals who had reservations in the affected zones is urged to contact the NPS Investigative Services Branch.