A significant flash flood in Grand Canyon National Park overwhelms parts of the Bright Angel Canyon and Phantom Ranch area, leaving more than 20 people missing or unaccounted for and prompting evacuations of hikers. The National Park Service says 62 people are evacuated after flooding destroys nearly all footbridges across Bright Angel Creek, cutting off access to trails.
Officials also report that torrents of water sweep heavy debris into the Colorado River, including boulders and metal structures, and significantly alter the local landscape. Media outlets describe continued efforts to locate and account for individuals, including ongoing air evacuations.
Several outlets note the flood begins around 2:30 p.m. Saturday. The reported number of people missing varies by outlet, ranging from at least 20 to “15 may be missing,” reflecting updates as information changes. The National Park Service warns that additional thunderstorms and heavy rainfall remain possible, which could trigger more flash flooding, debris flows, rockfall, and changes to trail and river conditions.
