Grand Canyon, Arizona: A major flash flood swept through part of the Grand Canyon after intense rainfall caused Bright Angel Creek to surge, forcing the evacuation of dozens of people and sending large boulders, metal structures and other debris into the Colorado River.
The flash flood struck on Saturday afternoon, August 29, in the Bright Angel Creek area near Phantom Ranch. According to the National Park Service, the powerful torrent destroyed footbridges, reshaped portions of the creek and created what appeared to be a new rapid in the Colorado River.
Dozens Rescued by Helicopter
More than 60 people were evacuated from the affected area, with helicopters used to take hikers and campers to safety. Some visitors were reportedly trapped or stranded as rapidly rising water, mud, boulders and debris swept through the canyon.
The National Weather Service said approximately 0.5 to 1 inch of rain fell within about 30 minutes over the steep, rocky terrain. Much of the rainfall ran off almost immediately, producing a sudden and powerful surge through Bright Angel Creek.
Bright Angel Creek descends from the North Rim toward the Colorado River, dropping roughly 6,000 feet. The steep terrain can make flash flooding particularly dangerous because water and debris can move rapidly through narrow canyon channels.
Around 15 People May Be Missing
The National Park Service is seeking information about approximately 15 people who may be missing or unaccounted for following the flooding.
Officials have asked people who were hiking, backpacking or camping in the affected Bright Angel Creek corridor, including people who may have had reservations in the area, to come forward with information that could help authorities establish who was present when the flood struck.
Authorities have also reported a confirmed death in the incident, with search-and-rescue efforts continuing as officials assess the situation.
Footbridges Destroyed, Landscape Altered
The force of the flood caused extensive damage around Bright Angel Creek. Footbridges were washed away, while rocks, metal structures and other debris were carried downstream into the Colorado River.
Officials said the landscape itself was significantly altered, with the creek bed widened by the powerful flow. The sudden movement of water and debris also created dangerous new river conditions.
The flooding has led authorities to close several areas, including Phantom Ranch, Bright Angel Campground and the North Kaibab Trail, while damage is assessed and search-and-rescue operations continue. River activities in the affected area have also been suspended.
More Storms Could Complicate Rescue Efforts
Weather conditions remain a concern, with additional thunderstorms and rainfall possible in the area. Officials are closely monitoring conditions because further rain could trigger additional flash flooding and make already-damaged trails and waterways even more dangerous.
The incident highlights the extreme risks posed by sudden thunderstorms in the Grand Canyon, where steep terrain can rapidly channel rainfall into narrow creeks and river corridors.
Search-and-rescue teams, the National Park Service and Arizona authorities are continuing operations and assessing damage. Officials are urging visitors to stay away from closed areas and follow all evacuation and safety instructions.
The situation remains developing, and the number of missing or unaccounted-for people could change as authorities complete their checks and receive additional information.
