Fifteen people may be missing or unaccounted for after a major flash flood tore through a remote area of the Grand Canyon, prompting an urgent public plea from the National Park Service. The flooding struck Bright Angel Canyon and the Phantom Ranch area on August 29, causing significant damage and destruction.
As of Sunday morning, 62 people had been evacuated from the affected area, with additional evacuations planned for the day. The National Park Service is warning that more thunderstorms and heavy rain are possible on Sunday and Monday, raising the threat of further flash flooding, debris flows, and rockfall.
Arizona Gov. Katie Hobbs has said that state emergency officials are coordinating with federal and local authorities to support search and recovery efforts. Hobbs expressed her concern for the families and loved ones of those still unaccounted for, while Arizona Secretary of State Adrian Fontes described the flash flooding as "devastating".
Park staff and the Arizona Department of Public Safety are continuing evacuation and response operations, working to account for people who may have been caught in the affected corridor. The National Park Service is asking anyone with information about hikers or backpackers who were in the inner canyon along Bright Angel Creek on August 29 to contact investigators.
The American Red Cross has opened a shelter at Grand Canyon High School for people impacted by the flooding. Those seeking more information can call 1-800-733-2767. The National Park Service is also asking anyone with information to contact their Investigative Services Branch Tip Line at 888-653-0009 or nps_isb@nps.gov.
NTC Report coverage is based on reporting from the original publisher.
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