A significant flash flood occurred at the Grand Canyon in Arizona, prompting the evacuation of numerous individuals and causing the Colorado River to be filled with large boulders, metal structures, and other debris, according to the U.S. National Park Service. The flooding took place in Bright Angel Creek, a tributary to the river, on Saturday afternoon, leading to concerns about 15 individuals who are currently missing or unaccounted for.
The rushing waters destroyed footbridges over the creek and dramatically transformed the landscape, widening the creek bed and creating what appears to be a new river rapid. The National Park Service is actively trying to locate all individuals in the affected area and is urging anyone with information about hikers or campers in the vicinity to come forward. Collaborating with the Arizona Department of Public Safety, the park service is continuing evacuation efforts on Sunday.
Jack Schmidt, the director of the Center for Colorado River Studies at Utah State University, highlighted the dynamic nature of the Grand Canyon’s landscape, emphasizing the need for caution. Due to the flooding, popular tourist destinations such as the Bright Angel Campground, Phantom Ranch, and sections of the North Kaibab trail remain closed while park officials assess the damage. Additionally, rafting trips on the Colorado River have been temporarily suspended.
Following the evacuation of over 60 individuals from Phantom Ranch, with more evacuations planned, no injuries have been reported. Erica Viola recounted her experience at the Bright Angel campground, where she witnessed the rising creek and debris flow before being airlifted to safety along with 50 other hikers.
According to National Weather Service meteorologist Justin Johndrow in Flagstaff, approximately 1.2 to 2.5 centimeters of rain fell within half an hour in the rocky terrain with a significant elevation drop, causing rapid runoff. The flooding occurred on the north side of the Grand Canyon, originating from Bright Angel Creek descending from the North Rim to the Colorado River, with a drop of about 1,830 meters.
As the region faces the possibility of more rain and thunderstorms, the situation remains under close monitoring by authorities.
