Bright Angel Creek near Phantom Ranger Station in the Grand Canyon, Arizona, was affected by flash flooding on Saturday. The National Park Service seeks the public’s help to find up to 20 people possibly missing due to the significant flash flood.
The Park Service requests that anyone who knew hikers or backpackers in the Bright Angel Creek corridor on August 29 get in touch. Those with a campground reservation in the impacted area should also reach out to the NPS Investigative Services Branch.
The areas of concern include the North Kaibab Trail from the trailhead to Phantom Ranch, Bright Angel Campground, and the area known as “the Box” north of Phantom Ranch. Officials reported that the flash flood struck around 2:30 p.m. Saturday, causing significant infrastructure damage across Bright Angel Canyon. Nearly all footbridges were destroyed, cutting off hiker access to the creek.
On Sunday morning, 62 individuals were evacuated from the area, with more evacuations occurring at Cottonwood Campground, Phantom Ranch, and nearby sites. These evacuees have been taken to Maswik Lodge Cafeteria on the South Rim, where the American Red Cross is offering assistance.
The Park Service announced that Phantom Ranch, Bright Angel Campground, the Phantom Ranch Canteen, and cabins, plus the North Kaibab Trail from the trailhead to Phantom Ranch, remain closed until further notice. The Black Bridge and Silver Bridge over the Colorado River are also shut with no estimated reopening date.
A flash flood watch remains active in the Grand Canyon area through Monday evening as more showers and thunderstorms are forecasted, according to the National Weather Service. Officials warned that flash flooding could occur in creeks, usually dry washes, swimming holes, and recently burned areas. Side canyons and narrow slot canyons may experience dangerous currents, and low-water crossings might become flooded.
Anyone with information should contact the National Park Service Investigative Services Branch Tip Line at (888) 653-0009 or [email protected].
This situation is still unfolding.
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