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Grand Canyon flash flood leaves 2 dead, others missing

Search and rescue teams have recovered two bodies following this weekend's flash floods in the Grand Canyon. The National Park Service says more than a dozen other people remain missing. Lodges and hotels are closed inside the park and more rain and flooding are possible. Ali Rogin reports.

Grand Canyon flash flood leaves 2 dead, others missing

One person was confirmed dead after a flash flood struck an area of the Grand Canyon over the weekend, leaving dozens of visitors evacuated by helicopter. The National Park Service (NPS) stated that 80 people were rescued, but one person remains unaccounted for. The National Weather Service (NWS) warns of additional rainy and thunderstorm activity through Monday, increasing the risk of further flooding.

Incident commander Dave Black stated that night-vision equipment was used to locate those needing evacuation. Park officials urge the public to provide information on individuals who may have been hiking or camping in the inner canyon near Bright Angel Creek, or campers with reservations in the area. Flash floods are common during the monsoon season from June to September, and the region is currently experiencing a severe drought that exacerbates the risk of extreme weather events fueled by climate change.

The flooding occurred as the Grand Canyon region continues to grapple with drought conditions, highlighting the escalating risks from a changing climate.

Written by urgent.news from The Guardian US's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.

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