15 missing, 62 evacuated after flash flood hits Grand Canyon; more storms feared

Flash flooding in Grand Canyon National Park has left 15 people missing and forced 62 others to evacuate, officials confirmed today. The sudden floodwaters swept through the park’s northern rim area late Saturday, submerging trails and stranding hikers. The National Park Service and Coconino County emergency responders are conducting search-and-rescue operations with support from the U.S. Geological Survey and local volunteers. Meteorologists warn that additional storms could bring more flash flooding to the region in the coming days.

The flooding originated from heavy rainfall upstream in the Kaibab National Forest, which feeds into the Colorado River and its tributaries within the park. Park rangers reported that water levels rose rapidly, catching visitors off guard. “This is a dynamic and dangerous situation,” said Grand Canyon National Park Superintendent Ed Keable. “Our priority is to locate those missing and ensure the safety of everyone in the park.” Keable confirmed that park facilities, including campgrounds and visitor centers, have been temporarily closed.

Emergency services deployed helicopters and drones to locate missing hikers and assess damage. The search area spans rugged terrain near Bright Angel Trail and North Kaibab Trail, where flash flooding is most severe. As of Sunday evening, six individuals have been rescued, including two with minor injuries. The Arizona Department of Public Safety has increased patrols along Highway 64, which provides the main access route to the park’s South Rim.

Meteorologists from the National Weather Service in Flagstaff predict continued unstable weather, with a 60% chance of thunderstorms through Tuesday. “The ground is already saturated from earlier rains, so any additional precipitation could trigger more flash flooding,” said meteorologist Brian Klimowski. The park service has issued flash flood watches for areas adjacent to the Colorado River and urged visitors to avoid canyon hikes and stay in secure lodging.

Grand Canyon National Park, one of the most visited natural attractions in the United States, attracts nearly 5 million visitors annually. The park spans 1.2 million acres and features iconic landmarks such as the Colorado River, Bright Angel Point, and the South Rim. The current flooding underscores the risks posed by seasonal monsoons and climate change, which have intensified rainfall patterns in the Southwest.

Visitors with reservations are advised to contact park authorities before traveling. Updates on park conditions and closures are available on the official Grand Canyon National Park website and its social media channels.

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