More than 20 individuals are unaccounted for following a significant flash flood that swept through the Grand Canyon's Bright Angel Canyon and Phantom Ranch area on Aug. 29. Rescue teams have evacuated 62 people from the affected locations, and additional evacuations are planned as the National Park Service (NPS) urges the public to help locate those who may have been in the vicinity during the event.
The NPS is asking for assistance from anyone who may have information about hikers, backpackers, or campers who were in the inner canyon along Bright Angel Creek, or who had campground reservations in the affected area. This includes individuals who may have been traveling on the North Kaibab Trail between the trailhead and Phantom Ranch, or staying at the Bright Angel Campground, or passing through an area known as "the Box" north of Phantom Ranch.
Muddy floodwater and debris inundated Bright Angel Creek, destroying nearly all footbridges that spanned the waterway. Park staff, in conjunction with the Arizona Department of Public Safety, are continuing response operations.
Meteorological forecasts indicate the possibility of further thunderstorms and heavy rain on Sunday and Monday, raising concerns about potential additional flash flooding, debris flows, and rockfall in the region. The park service did not provide specific details about the individuals who are unaccounted for, including whether they were day hikers, overnight backpackers, or visitors with reservations.
Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the National Park Service Investigative Services Branch Tip Line at 888-653-0009 or email [email protected].