Flash flood kills 1, 15 missing at Grand Canyon
A 46-year-old man's body was recovered after a flash flood swept through the Grand Canyon, leaving 15 others missing and over 60 people evacuated, with significant damage to the park's infrastructure
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Two bodies have been recovered, and only one person remains missing.
Story published. A 46-year-old man's body was recovered after a flash flood swept through the Grand Canyon, leaving 15 others missing and over 60 people evacuated, with significant damage to the park's infrastructure
A flash flood at the Grand Canyon has resulted in the death of at least one person, a 46-year-old man, and left 15 others missing. The body of the man was recovered near Crystal Rapids along the Colorado River. More than 60 people were evacuated from the depths of the canyon after the flood, which occurred on Saturday afternoon in Bright Angel Canyon and the Phantom Ranch area.
The flash flood was caused by up to 1 inch of rain falling in about 20 minutes in the area, with much of it running down the steep terrain. The natural phenomenon destroyed nearly all footbridges over Bright Angel Creek, and swept boulders and debris into the Colorado River.
The park's sole water pipeline was damaged, prompting water restrictions. Overnight stays at lodges and hotels inside the park will be suspended from Monday, and year-round residents are being asked to conserve water. The park service said these measures are crucial for ensuring the safety and sustainability of water resources.
## What happens next The park will remain open for day use, but the Bright Angel Campground, Phantom Ranch, and parts of the North Kaibab Trail were closed on Sunday. Colorado River rafting trips have also been halted. The Arizona Department of Public Safety is helping with additional evacuations.
## Background The flood is a major blow to an enduring effort to modernise the pipeline that serves 6 million visitors a year and roughly 1,600 residents of Grand Canyon Village. A $208 million rehabilitation of the pipeline and upgrades to the associated water delivery system started in 2023. The park service is asking anyone with details about hikers or campers in the canyon to get in touch, as they have yet to account for 15 people.
The flash flood has significant implications for the park's infrastructure and visitors. The damage to the water pipeline and the resulting water restrictions will impact the daily lives of residents and visitors alike. The park's decision to suspend overnight stays at lodges and hotels will also affect the local economy. As the park service works to recover from the flood, visitors and residents will have to adapt to the new restrictions and closures.
