At least one person has died and 15 others remain missing following a flash flood that hit the Grand Canyon National Park in Arizona, according to officials. The National Park Service reported that the body of a 46-year-old man was recovered Sunday evening near Crystal Rapids along the Colorado River. The flood also forced the evacuation of over 60 people from affected areas.
The National Weather Service attributed the flash flood to intense rainfall on the Kaibab Plateau, which dropped about one inch of rain in roughly 20 minutes on Saturday afternoon. The heavy water runoff rushed down steep terrain, resulting in flooding around Bright Angel Canyon and the Phantom Ranch vicinity at approximately 2:30 p.m.
Events During the Flash Flood
Hikers caught in Bright Angel Canyon described witnessing rapid flooding, falling boulders, mudslides, and landslides. Parth Desai, who was hiking with a group, recounted how they encountered a 4-foot-high debris wall approaching. To escape, the group climbed into a cactus patch before being rescued by helicopter.
Impact on Park Facilities and Operations
The floodwaters destroyed nearly all footbridges over Bright Angel Creek and swept rocks and debris into the Colorado River. Damage to the park’s sole water pipeline led to water restrictions. While the park remains open for day use, portions including the Bright Angel Campground, Phantom Ranch, and segments of the North Kaibab Trail closed Sunday. Overnight lodging inside the park was suspended starting Monday, and all Colorado River rafting trips have been halted.
Weather Outlook
Officials warn of continuing thunderstorms and heavy rain through Monday, prompting ongoing monitoring of conditions in the Grand Canyon area to ensure visitor and staff safety.
