Two dead, more than 20 unaccounted for after flash floods hit Grand Canyon

At least two people have died and more than 20 others may remain unaccounted for after powerful flash flooding tore through Arizona’s Grand Canyon over the weekend, prompting helicopter evacuations and widespread closures.

Heavy rainfall on Saturday (Aug. 29) sent a torrent of mud, rocks and debris through Bright Angel Creek, a major side canyon stretching from the Grand Canyon’s North Rim to the Colorado River, reports Reuters.

The flooding washed out trails and footbridges and caused significant damage to infrastructure in the inner canyon.

The National Park Service (NPS) confirmed Monday (Aug. 31) that the bodies of two victims had been recovered. One was a 46-year-old man whose remains were located Sunday.

Search-and-recovery efforts continued Monday along the canyon floor.

The exact number of people still missing remained unclear.

In a social media update Sunday, the NPS said it was seeking "information about more than 20 individuals who may be missing or unaccounted for" following the flooding.

Dozens evacuated by helicopter

As of Sunday morning, 62 people had been evacuated from Phantom Ranch, the historic lodge and campground located near the meeting point of Bright Angel Creek and the Colorado River.

The North Kaibab Trail, which follows the creek through the canyon, was also impacted.

"The flooding caused extensive damage to infrastructure in the inner canyon, including the Transcanyon Waterline, which supplies water from the canyon for use in the park," the Park Service said.

With the water system temporarily out of service, the Grand Canyon was operating with limited water reserves, prompting significant conservation measures at park facilities.

South Rim remains open

The Grand Canyon’s popular South Rim remained open to daytime visitors on Monday, although overnight accommodations and other concessions were closed.

Several hiking and lodging areas affected by the flooding also remained completely shuttered, with the NPS asking visitors to stay away from impacted areas while emergency operations continue.

Additional thunderstorms were forecast for the region early this week, potentially complicating recovery efforts.

Travellers with upcoming Grand Canyon plans should monitor official park updates and confirm the status of accommodations, trails and other services before arriving.

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