Flash Flood in Grand Canyon Sparks Search for More Than 15 Missing People

A sudden flood swept through Arizona’s Grand Canyon after heavy storms, leaving more than 15 people potentially missing and nearly all bridges over Bright Angel Creek destroyed.

The flooding struck around 2:30 p.m. Saturday near Phantom Ranch and the popular Bright Angel Canyon. Several storms had brought intense rain, much of it falling on steep, rocky ground before running rapidly into lower areas, authorities said.

The National Park Service asked for help identifying people who might be “missing or unaccounted for.” The agency said it was working with Arizona authorities to move people to safety and account for everyone affected. Officials initially estimated that about 20 people were missing.

By Sunday morning, rescuers had evacuated 62 people from Phantom Ranch and the lower North Kaibab Trail. More evacuations were planned. Images and video showed the area around Phantom Ranch covered in mud and heavily damaged.

Hiker David Gregory told CNN that people in his group saw the creek beside their camp flowing quickly and carrying large amounts of debris. A helicopter later lifted them out. Nikki Baggs, a 41-year-old hiker evacuated by helicopter, told the BBC, “It was a beautiful day and then people started screaming and running.” The National Park Service warned that thunderstorms and heavy rain on Sunday and Monday could cause more flash floods.

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It was a beautiful day and then people started screaming and running.