Flash floods in Grand Canyon leave about 15 people missing

About 15 people believed to be missing were being sought after flash floods struck parts of Arizona’s Grand Canyon, while dozens of tourists were evacuated from the national park.

The National Park Service said its staff, working with Arizona’s Department of Public Safety, continued evacuation and response operations and was trying to locate people who may have been in the affected areas. Officials asked anyone with information about hikers in the flood zones to contact park authorities.

At least 62 people had been evacuated by early Sunday. More evacuations were planned at several camps because forecasts called for additional storms and heavy rain. The National Park Service said no injuries had been reported.

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The staff of Grand Canyon National Park, in coordination with the Arizona Department of Public Safety, continues evacuation and response operations and is working to locate people who may have been in the affected area.

The flooding caused extensive damage along Bright Angel Creek. Nearly all pedestrian walkways crossing the creek were destroyed, removing foot access across the waterway. Access to the Colorado River in the area, along with several bridges, remained closed without a reopening date.

Authorities warned that more thunderstorms and heavy rain could produce new flash floods, debris flows, rockfalls and sudden changes in trail and river conditions. The Grand Canyon recorded 4,430,653 recreational visits in 2025, making it the fourth-most visited U.S. national park.

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The floods caused significant damage throughout Bright Angel Canyon. Nearly all pedestrian walkways crossing Bright Angel Creek were destroyed, eliminating pedestrian access across the creek.