**Dozens Evacuated and About 15 Missing After Grand Canyon Flash Flood**
**Grand Canyon, Arizona – August 31, 2026** – A severe flash flood struck the Grand Canyon on Saturday, August 29, leading to the evacuation of 62 individuals and leaving at least 15 people unaccounted for, according to the National Park Service (NPS). The flooding primarily affected the Bright Angel Canyon and Phantom Ranch areas, causing significant damage and altering the landscape.
The intense rainfall caused Bright Angel Creek, which feeds into the Colorado River, to swell dramatically. Witnesses reported seeing large boulders, metal debris, and other materials swept into the river, creating hazardous conditions. The floodwaters also destroyed footbridges over the creek, widened the creek bed, and resulted in the formation of new rapids.
In a statement, the NPS urged the public to assist in locating the approximately 15 individuals who are feared missing following the incident. As of Sunday morning, no injuries had been reported, but the situation remains serious as search and rescue operations are underway.
Parth Desai, a hiker who was in the canyon at the time of the flood, described a chaotic scene. "We saw the creek flood, waterfalls coming up out of nowhere; boulders, mud, landslides happening everywhere," he recounted. His group, which included fellow doctors and a park ranger, witnessed the rapid transformation of the landscape.
The park service has closed several popular tourist destinations, including the Bright Angel Campground, Phantom Ranch, and parts of the North Kaibab trail, as officials assess the extent of the damage. Rafting trips on the Colorado River have also been suspended until further notice.
Jack Schmidt, director of the Center for Colorado River Studies at Utah State University, commented on the event, stating, "This is a reminder of what a dynamic and active landscape Grand Canyon is." The NPS is coordinating with the Arizona Department of Public Safety for ongoing evacuation efforts and further assessments of the area.
As the situation develops, more rain and thunderstorms are forecast for the region into Monday, raising concerns about additional flooding and complicating rescue efforts. The NPS continues to monitor conditions closely and will provide updates as more information becomes available.