The National Park Service (NPS) in the United States announced on Sunday (August 30) that parts of Grand Canyon National Park in Arizona were hit by severe flash flooding on Saturday (August 29), with possibly 15 people missing and at least 62 people evacuated.
The park authorities stated that the initial estimate of 20 missing individuals was just a preliminary figure, and as search and verification efforts continue, that number may change.
According to CBS, the flash flooding on Saturday affected areas such as Bright Angel Canyon and Phantom Ranch, with large amounts of mud, rocks, and debris being washed into the Colorado River.
The NPS mentioned that a footbridge over Bright Angel Creek was almost completely destroyed by the flooding, rendering hikers unable to pass through. The Bright Angel Trail is one of the most popular hiking routes within the Grand Canyon.
Following the incident, areas including Phantom Ranch, Bright Angel Campground, Phantom Ranch Canteen, and sections of the North Kaibab Trail have been temporarily closed. The reopening time is yet to be determined.
The park management department revealed that they are collaborating with the Arizona Department of Public Safety to continue evacuation and search and rescue operations, as well as verifying the whereabouts of hikers and backpackers who may have been in the affected area at the time.
As of Sunday afternoon, the local government had not received any reports of injuries. The park authorities urge anyone with information about missing hikers or backpackers to immediately provide it to the park management department.
David Gregory, who was evacuated during the flood, recounted to CNN that before the flash flood arrived, he and his companions noticed the creek waters turning rapidly dark, carrying a large amount of mud and debris, prompting them to quickly evacuate the disaster zone by helicopter.
The National Weather Service stated that localized heavy rainfall occurred on Saturday, with some areas receiving 0.5 to 1 inch of rain within approximately 30 minutes. Due to the steep terrain of the Grand Canyon, the rainwater swiftly funneled into the streams, leading to flash flooding.
The meteorological department forecasts the possibility of thunderstorms and heavy rainfall in the area on Sunday and Monday (August 31).
Park rangers caution that the rainfall may trigger more flash floods, mudslides, and rockfalls, as well as rapidly alter trail and river conditions.