Grand Canyon Flash Flood Leaves 1 Dead, 20 Missing

A major flash flood swept through parts of Grand Canyon National Park in the US, leaving one person dead and over 20 missing. The flood, which occurred on Saturday, carried boulders, metal structures, and other debris into the Colorado River.

The National Park Service is working with Arizona authorities to evacuate people and account for those in the affected areas. The body of a 46-year-old man was recovered, marking the first confirmed death. Authorities are seeking information about the missing and hikers who were in the area.

The flash flood began in Bright Angel Creek, which flows into the Colorado River, around 2:30 pm on Saturday. Torrents of water destroyed footbridges and significantly altered the landscape. Videos showed that the flooding appeared to have widened the creek bed and created what looked like a new river rapid.

According to Jack Schmidt, director of the Centre for Colorado River Studies at Utah State University, the flash flood is a reminder of the dynamic and active landscape of the Grand Canyon. Survivor Erica Viola, who was at Bright Angel Campground when the rain began, described the scene as debris, including what appeared to be a bunkhouse, began flowing past.

The National Weather Service reported that about half an inch to one inch of rain fell within around 30 minutes over the rocky terrain, which has a steep drop in elevation. The flooding occurred on the northern side of the Grand Canyon, where Bright Angel Creek descends from the North Rim to the Colorado River, dropping around 6,000 feet.

As of Sunday morning, 62 people had been evacuated from Phantom Ranch, while more evacuations were planned. No injuries had been reported. The National Park Service warned that thunderstorms and heavy rainfall could continue through Monday, potentially causing additional flash flooding, debris flows, rockfall, and changing trail and river conditions.

Bright Angel Campground, Phantom Ranch, and parts of the North Kaibab Trail remained closed on Sunday as officials assessed the damage. Rafting trips on the Colorado River were also halted. The incident highlights the importance of being prepared for extreme weather conditions when visiting national parks.

The Grand Canyon is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the US, attracting millions of visitors each year. The park's unique landscape and extreme weather conditions make it a challenging place to visit, and authorities are working to ensure that visitors are safe and aware of the potential risks.

The search for the missing persons is ongoing, and authorities are urging anyone with information to come forward. The incident is a reminder of the power of nature and the importance of being prepared for extreme weather conditions.

In conclusion, the flash flood at the Grand Canyon has resulted in one death and over 20 missing persons, with 62 people evacuated from the area. The incident highlights the importance of being prepared for extreme weather conditions and the need for authorities to take measures to ensure visitor safety.