2 die in Grand Canyon flash flood, only 1 person unaccounted for

Two people lost their lives in a flash flood at the Grand Canyon on Saturday, with the death toll remaining at that level as of Monday, according to US park rangers. Only one person remains unaccounted for in the area, the National Park Service's Dave Black told reporters. The incident occurred when a monsoonal downpour lashed the northern side of the canyon, sending torrents of water, rock, and debris down a popular hiking route in Bright Angel Canyon.

The flood destroyed footbridges and blocked hiking routes, washing out campgrounds and making it difficult for rescue teams to reach the victims. Over 80 people had been rescued by the end of Saturday and Sunday, as park rangers canvassed the park's camping permit system to determine who might have been in the area during the disaster.

However, search and rescue efforts were hampered by more heavy rains on Monday, delaying recovery operations. The park service announced water restrictions and a ban on wood and charcoal fires in areas affected by the flooding, as a damaged water pipeline could impact firefighting efforts. Despite the tragedy, the Grand Canyon remained open to visitors, though trails down into the canyon were passable with warnings about potential dangers.

Flash floods are common in the region, and the park urged visitors to be cautious during the monsoon season, which typically runs from July to mid-September.