A Grand Canyon Flood Emergency unfolded on Saturday after sudden flash flooding swept through parts of the famous national park, leaving about 15 people missing or unaccounted for and forcing a large-scale rescue operation.
The flooding struck Bright Angel Canyon and the Phantom Ranch area at about 2:30 p.m. local time. Heavy rain caused water to rush through the canyon with little warning. Visitors in the area were forced to move quickly to higher ground as conditions became dangerous.
Rescue crews responded soon after the flooding began. Officials said 62 people have already been airlifted from the canyon. More evacuations are expected as search teams continue their work.
No injuries have been reported.
Authorities first believed that more than 20 people were missing. After further checks and contact with visitors, the number was revised to about 15 people. Search efforts remain active as officials try to account for everyone who may have been in the flood zone.
The emergency turned a normal day of sightseeing into a race for safety.
Nikki Baggs, a visitor from the United States, was among those rescued. She had arrived at Phantom Ranch with two friends and had just settled into their cabin before deciding to explore the area.
The weather appeared calm earlier in the day. However, conditions changed very fast.
Baggs said people suddenly began shouting and running as floodwaters moved through the canyon. She and her friends reacted quickly and headed toward higher ground.
At first, they waited near a picnic area. As the situation developed, park rangers instructed them to move again to a safer ledge above the rising water.
Baggs said they remained there for several hours along with many other visitors. Rescue teams later transported them out of the canyon by helicopter during the evening.
She described the experience as frightening but said the actions of park rangers helped many people stay calm.
According to Baggs, emergency workers showed strong teamwork throughout the rescue effort. Their clear instructions and quick decisions helped visitors feel safer during a dangerous event.
The flood also caused serious damage across parts of the canyon.
Visitors reported seeing bridges carried away by the force of the water. Officials later confirmed that footbridges in the affected area had been destroyed. Images released by park authorities showed debris, damaged structures, and muddy conditions left behind after the floodwaters moved through.
Several trails have been closed because of safety concerns.
Park officials said crews are inspecting damaged areas and assessing the full impact of the flooding. Some routes may remain closed until repairs can be completed and conditions improve.
Authorities are also asking for help from the public.
Anyone who knows hikers or backpackers who were traveling through the Bright Angel Creek corridor on Saturday is encouraged to contact park officials. The information may help search teams identify people who have not yet been located.
Weather forecasts suggest that the danger is not over.
Officials warned that more thunderstorms and heavy rainfall could affect the region on Sunday and Monday. Additional flash flooding remains possible if strong storms continue to develop over the canyon.
Park staff also warned about other hazards linked to severe weather. These include falling rocks, debris flows, damaged trails, and changing river conditions. Visitors have been advised to stay away from closed areas and follow all safety instructions.
The Grand Canyon is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the United States. About five million people visit the park each year. Many come to hike, camp, and explore its deep canyons and scenic landscapes.
The Bright Angel Trail is the park’s most visited hiking route and attracts thousands of people every year. Because of its popularity, officials are taking extra care to account for all visitors who may have been affected by the flooding.
As the Grand Canyon Flood Emergency continues, rescue teams remain focused on finding those still missing and helping visitors return to safety. Authorities are closely watching weather conditions while recovery and search operations move forward across the affected areas.
