Flash Flood in Grand Canyon: Search for Missing Hikers Underway

Bright Angel Creek near the Phantom Ranger Station in the Grand Canyon, Arizona, experienced significant flash flooding on Saturday. The National Park Service (NPS) is seeking assistance in locating up to 20 people who might be missing following this incident.

The NPS requests that anyone aware of hikers or backpackers in the Bright Angel Creek corridor on August 29, or individuals with campground reservations in the area, contact the NPS Investigative Services Branch. This includes those traveling the North Kaibab Trail to Phantom Ranch, residing at Bright Angel Campground, or visiting ‘the Box’ north of Phantom Ranch.

The flash flood occurred around 2:30 p.m. on Saturday, causing major damage to infrastructure in Bright Angel Canyon. Nearly all footbridges were washed away, affecting hiker access to the creek.

By Sunday morning, 62 people were evacuated, with ongoing evacuations from Cottonwood Campground, Phantom Ranch, and nearby sites. Evacuees were escorted to the Maswik Lodge Cafeteria on the South Rim, where the American Red Cross is assisting.

The NPS announced closures of Phantom Ranch, Bright Angel Campground, Phantom Ranch Canteen and cabins, and the North Kaibab Trail from the trailhead to Phantom Ranch. Additionally, the Black Bridge and Silver Bridge over the Colorado River are closed with no reopening date yet stated.

A flash flood watch in the Grand Canyon area will continue through Monday evening, as more showers and thunderstorms are anticipated, according to the National Weather Service. The Service warned of potential flash flooding in creeks, washes, swimming areas, and recently burned zones, with dangerous currents possible in side canyons and narrow slots. Flooding at low-water crossings is also a risk.

Anyone with information can contact the National Park Service Investigative Services Branch Tip Line at (888) 653-0009 or [email protected].

This story is developing.