Grand Canyon Flash Flood Leaves 15 Missing, 60 Evacuated

About 15 people may be missing after a flash flood in Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona, according to the National Park Service. Dozens of people were evacuated as the intense rain caused the Colorado River to swell with debris and large boulders. The floods struck Bright Angel Canyon and Phantom Ranch on Saturday, August 29, forcing park officials to work with Arizona authorities to rescue people and locate the missing.

The park service emphasized that there were no fatalities or injuries, but 62 individuals had been evacuated by early Sunday morning. The park warned that additional heavy rains could cause further flash flooding and potential damage to the infrastructure, including the only water pipeline serving tourists and residents. As of Sunday morning, no overnight accommodations at lodges and hotels within the park would be allowed due to water supply issues, and some overnight stays would be restricted for year-round residents.

The park service is working with local authorities to ensure the safety and sustainability of water resources in the area.