About 15 missing after flash flood hits Grand Canyon National Park
Roughly 15 people are believed missing following a flash flood at Grand Canyon National Park on Saturday, with rescue teams working alongside Arizona authorities. No deaths or injuries have been reported.
The US National Park Service said Sunday that about 15 people are believed missing after a flash flood struck Grand Canyon National Park. An earlier estimate had put the number of missing people at more than 20, before it was later revised downward.
The flooding hit the Bright Angel Canyon and Phantom Ranch area on Saturday, beginning around 2:30 pm local time, after heavy rainfall over the Kaibab Plateau. Footage filmed by hikers showed muddy water surging past trails and under footbridges, carrying logs and other debris, accompanied by a loud rumbling sound.
Park officials said there were no deaths or injuries. Crews are working with Arizona state authorities to evacuate visitors and account for those still missing. By Sunday morning, 62 people had been evacuated, with more evacuations planned.
Risk of further flooding
The park service warned that additional thunderstorms and heavy rain were possible through Monday, which could trigger more flash flooding, debris flows, rockfalls and changing trail and river conditions.
The flood also damaged a key pipeline supplying water to the park, prompting water restrictions in its most-visited area and a ban on wood and charcoal fires. Some overnight lodging will be closed, though the park will stay open for day visitors.
