Grand Canyon Flood Kills One and Leaves 15 Missing

A flash flood swept through the Grand Canyon’s Bright Angel Canyon and Phantom Ranch area, killing at least one person and leaving about 15 others missing. The National Park Service said a 46-year-old man’s body was recovered Sunday near Crystal Rapids along the Colorado River in northern Arizona.

The flooding forced dozens of people to evacuate. By Sunday morning, 62 people had been taken out of the area, while officials continued working with Arizona authorities to locate those still missing. The park service revised the number of missing people from more than 20 to around 15.

Hikers’ video showed muddy water rushing along trails and beneath footbridges, carrying logs and other debris through swollen rivers. The flood also destroyed footbridges and blocked crossings over Bright Angel Creek, creating what the park service called “significant impacts to infrastructure.”

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significant impacts to infrastructure

The Transcanyon Waterline, the park’s 12.5-mile water pipeline, also sustained damage. The line carries drinking water and supports fire suppression between Roaring Springs on the North Rim and the South Rim. Officials announced water restrictions in the Grand Canyon’s most visited area, banned wood and charcoal fires, and said overnight accommodations would close from Monday.

The flood began around 2:30 p.m. Saturday after rain fell on the Kaibab Plateau. The park service warned that more thunderstorms and heavy rain could bring additional flash floods, debris flows, rockfall and sudden changes in trail and river conditions through Monday. Nearly five million people visited the Grand Canyon last year.

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These measures are crucial for ensuring the safety and sustainability of water resources