Flash flooding at Grand Canyon National Park has resulted in over 20 people missing, according to park authorities.
On Sunday, flash floods swept through several campgrounds and hiking trails within the national park, with the majority of impacts concentrated on the inner loop of Bright Angel Creek corridor. Authorities expressed concern that hikers and backpackers were swept away by rapidly rising floodwaters.
The National Park Service issued a statement Sunday afternoon urging the public to provide information for more than 20 individuals who may be missing or unaccounted for following Saturday’s flash flood. The statement specifically requested details from anyone who was in the inner canyon along Bright Angel Creek corridor on August 29, or had a campground reservation in the affected area, to contact the National Park Service Investigative Services Branch.
Park officials reported that at least 62 people have been evacuated by helicopter rescue crews from impacted areas. The evacuees were transported to the Maswik Lodge food court on the South Rim, where American Red Cross volunteers are providing assistance. No injuries have been reported among those evacuated.
The National Park Service noted that nearly all footbridges spanning Bright Angel Creek were destroyed, eliminating pedestrian access across the creek. Officials also warned of additional thunderstorms and heavy rainfall expected Sunday and Monday, which could lead to further flash flooding, debris flows, rockfall, and changing trail and river conditions.
