At least 20 people are missing and 62 have been evacuated following a sudden flash flood in the northern section of the Grand Canyon National Park in Arizona, according to park authorities. The flooding struck the heavily frequented Bright Angel trail and Phantom Ranch areas on the afternoon of Saturday, August 29, triggering widespread trail closures and emergency rescue operations.
Search and Rescue Operations Underway in Bright Angel Corridor
The United States National Parks Service issued an urgent public appeal for information regarding hikers and campers who were in the Bright Angel Creek corridor on the day of the disaster. According to the official statement released by the agency, officials need details on anyone who held a campground reservation in the zone, or travelers who may have been on the North Kaibab Trail between the trailhead and Phantom Ranch, the Bright Angel campground, or ‘The Box’ area north of Phantom Ranch.
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While officials confirmed that no injuries or fatalities have been reported so far, the National Park Service warned that severe thunderstorms expected overnight could trigger additional flash floods across the canyon floor.
Rainfall Intensity and Geological Impact on Bright Angel Creek
Data reported by the Associated Press indicates that between 1 and 2.5 centimeters of rain fell in roughly 30 minutes over the rocky terrain surrounding Bright Angel Creek. The resulting torrents swept away pedestrian footbridges crossing the stream, significantly widened the watercourse, and reshaped the local landscape.
Heavy debris, massive boulders, and metal infrastructure were pulled down into the Colorado River, into which Bright Angel Creek flows as a tributary. Because of the extensive damage, park officials closed the Bright Angel campground, Phantom Ranch—which serves as a key resting and gathering point for river rafters—and sections of the North Kaibab Trail to assess structural safety.
Did you know?
Phantom Ranch is a point of habitual gathering for those who practice rafting to go up and down from the Colorado River.
Frequently Asked Questions
What areas of the Grand Canyon were affected by the flash flood?
The flood severely impacted the Bright Angel trail, the Bright Angel Creek corridor, the North Kaibab Trail, ‘The Box’ area, and the Phantom Ranch area in the northern section of Grand Canyon National Park.
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Who should contact the National Park Service with information?
The National Park Service requests that anyone with knowledge of hikers, campers, or individuals with campsite reservations in the Bright Angel Creek corridor or North Kaibab Trail on August 29 contact the agency’s Investigative Services Branch.