Grand Canyon Flash Floods Evacuate Dozens, Leave 15 Missing

In a sudden and dramatic turn of events, flash flooding swept through the Grand Canyon, forcing the evacuation of dozens of visitors and leaving 15 people missing or unaccounted for. The National Park Service reported that torrents of water raced through the canyon, washing out footbridges over a creek that feeds the Colorado River.

Rapid Onset of the Flood

The flood began unexpectedly, catching hikers and park staff off guard. Heavy rainfall upstream triggered a rapid rise in water levels, turning a normally tranquil creek into a torrent that surged downstream at alarming speeds.

Impact on Park Infrastructure

Footbridges that cross the creek were swept away, creating sudden gaps in the trail network. The loss of these bridges forced park rangers to halt access to certain areas and to redirect visitors to safer routes.

Evacuation and Search Efforts

Park officials immediately began evacuating hikers from the affected zones. Search teams combed the canyon floor and surrounding areas in an effort to locate the missing individuals. Despite extensive efforts, 15 people remain unaccounted for.

National Park Service Response

The National Park Service issued a statement confirming the evacuation and the missing persons count. They urged visitors to stay on marked trails and to heed any warnings issued by park rangers.

What to Do If You’re in the Area

Visitors should remain vigilant for sudden weather changes, especially during the monsoon season. If you encounter a sudden rise in water or a washed-out bridge, move to higher ground immediately and follow ranger instructions.

For more details, see the full CBS News report: CBS News Video.

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