A major flash flood in the Grand Canyon on Saturday afternoon swept large boulders, metal structures, and other debris into the Colorado River, prompting the evacuation of dozens of people and leaving park officials searching for approximately 15 individuals who may be unaccounted for. The torrents of water surged through Bright Angel Creek, a waterway that flows into the Colorado River, destroying footbridges and dramatically reshaping the landscape.
The National Park Service is requesting assistance from the public to gather information about anyone hiking or camping in the area at the time of the incident. Evacuations were ongoing Sunday, with the park service coordinating efforts with the Arizona Department of Public Safety. No injuries have been reported.
Popular tourist locations, including the Bright Angel Campground, Phantom Ranch, and sections of the North Kaibab trail, were closed Sunday as authorities assessed the damage. Rafting excursions on the Colorado River have also been temporarily suspended.
Over 60 individuals were evacuated from Phantom Ranch, a site known for its historic canteen and dormitories and a common stopping point for river rafters. One visitor, Erica Viola, described being at Bright Angel Campground when the rain began, observing the creek rise rapidly and carrying debris, including what appeared to be a bunkhouse. Viola and about 50 other hikers were airlifted to safety.
The flash flood occurred on the north side of the Grand Canyon, where Bright Angel Creek descends approximately 6,000 feet from the North Rim to the Colorado River. Meteorologists reported that between half an inch and 1 inch of rain fell in the area within about 30 minutes. The National Weather Service indicated that additional rain and thunderstorms are possible in the region through Monday.