- Flash flood began in Bright Angel Creek at approximately 2:30 p.m. on August 29.
- Nearly all footbridges over Bright Angel Creek were destroyed, significantly altering the landscape.
- By the morning of August 30, 62 individuals had been evacuated from Phantom Ranch and the lower North Kaibab Trail.
- More than 20 people are reported missing or unaccounted for following the flooding.
- Phantom Ranch, Bright Angel Campground, and the North Kaibab Trail are closed until further notice.
- The Colorado River is closed to river traffic due to debris from the flooding.
- Additional thunderstorms and heavy rainfall are possible through Monday, raising concerns for further flooding.
- Heavy rainfall of about half an inch to 1 inch fell within 30 minutes in the area, contributing to the flash flood.
- Grand Canyon National Park staff are assessing damage to trails, bridges, utilities, and facilities.
- Evacuees are being transported to the Maswik Lodge Cafeteria on the South Rim for assistance.
- No injuries have been reported as of the latest available information.
- Rafting trips on the Colorado River have been halted due to the flooding.
Flash floods struck Grand Canyon National Park on August 29, causing extensive damage and leading to the evacuation of 62 individuals from Phantom Ranch and the North Kaibab Trail.14610
Over 20 people are reported missing as search efforts continue amid warnings of more storms.
The flooding began around 2:30 p.m. in Bright Angel Canyon, with up to 1 inch of rain falling in just 30 minutes, according to meteorologist Justin Johndrow.
The sudden deluge swept away footbridges and debris, significantly altering the landscape and closing popular tourist spots.
“Most of it ran off instantly,” Johndrow noted, highlighting the rapid onset of the flooding.
Evacuees are being transported to safety, with the American Red Cross providing assistance at Maswik Lodge Cafeteria.11
No injuries have been reported so far, but the National Park Service warns of potential additional flash flooding and debris flows.12
“Conditions were really bad, we were so lucky to have made it out of there,” said Erica Viola, a survivor who witnessed the creek rise dramatically.
The Colorado River is also closed to traffic due to debris, and assessments of the damage to trails and infrastructure are ongoing.7
Popular areas like Phantom Ranch and Bright Angel Campground remain closed as officials evaluate the situation, with no estimated reopening date provided.
“The flood destroyed nearly all footbridges over Bright Angel Creek, cutting off hiker access, and the Colorado River is closed to traffic due to debris. Evacuees are being transported to Maswik Lodge Cafeteria on the South Rim, where the American Red Cross is coordinating assistance.”
National Park Service (.gov)
