Flash Floods in Grand Canyon Leave Many Missing

At least 20 people are missing or unaccounted for following flash floods in a remote Grand Canyon area, officials reported on Sunday. Among the impacted sites is a historic lodge near the bottom of the canyon.

The National Park Service is seeking information regarding individuals who may have been hiking or backpacking along Bright Angel Creek. This appeal also extends to campers planning to stay at Phantom Ranch or Bright Angel Campground.

Authorities are working to locate travelers potentially stranded along the North Kaibab Trail. By Sunday morning, evacuations had been conducted for 62 people from Phantom Ranch and the lower sections of the North Kaibab Trail. Additional evacuations from Phantom Ranch and Cottonwood Campground were also anticipated.

The park’s administration noted that footbridges over Bright Angel Creek had been destroyed, removing pedestrian access across the creek. Furthermore, certain crossings of the Colorado River are closed while damage assessments continue. Remnants of stone bridge pylons are visible along Bright Angel Creek, marking where the flood destroyed a footbridge on August 29.

“The flash flood resulted in significant impacts to infrastructure throughout Bright Angel Canyon,”

the National Park Service indicated. Efforts are ongoing to evaluate the damage to trails, bridges, utilities, facilities, and other infrastructure within the park.

Phantom Ranch remains accessible only by hiking, raft, or mule transport. This location has attracted visitors since its opening in 1922. Due to the risk of floating debris, Colorado River traffic is currently suspended.