At least 62 people were evacuated on Saturday after flash flooding swept through the Grand Canyon, according to the National Park Service. The flooding destroyed nearly all footbridges crossing Bright Angel Creek, leaving hikers stranded and cutting off access along popular trails. Officials have reported that 15 people may still be missing following the sudden deluge.
The floodwaters tore through the narrow canyon corridor with little warning, catching many hikers off guard. Bright Angel Creek, typically a calm stream, surged rapidly after intense rainfall hit the region. The force of the water dismantled infrastructure that had stood for years, including several wooden and metal footbridges that serve as critical links along the route.
Evacuation efforts began immediately after the storm subsided and conditions allowed for safe movement. Rescue teams were deployed on foot and by helicopter to reach hikers who had sought higher ground. The Park Service confirmed that all evacuated individuals were accounted for and transported out of the affected area without serious injuries being reported.
The search for the missing individuals is ongoing, with teams scouring the creek bed and adjacent trails. Crews are focusing on areas where the current would have carried debris and where hikers might have taken shelter. The rugged terrain and lingering high water are complicating the search, officials said.
Access to the affected portion of the canyon has been temporarily closed to the public. Park rangers are advising visitors to check weather forecasts and avoid narrow canyons and creek beds during monsoon season. The region is prone to flash flooding during the late summer months, and conditions can change rapidly with little warning.
Recent storms across the Southwest have brought record rainfall in short bursts, contributing to dangerous runoff. The National Weather Service had issued a flash flood warning for the area on Saturday morning, but the sudden intensity of the storm still caught many travelers unprepared. Experts note that even minor storms upstream can trigger violent flooding downstream in canyon environments.
The Park Service is working to coordinate recovery and search efforts with local and federal agencies. Officials are asking anyone who was in the area and may have information about missing hikers to come forward. The investigation into the exact circumstances of the flood and the timeline of the evacuations is expected to continue over the coming days.
This incident highlights the persistent risks faced by visitors to the Grand Canyon, where natural beauty coexists with sudden and severe weather threats. Officials have stressed the importance of preparation and situational awareness when hiking in remote and dynamic environments. The canyon remains open in other areas, but the affected zone will stay closed until safety assessments are completed.
