In brief
A sudden flash flood struck Grand Canyon’s Bright Angel Canyon on Saturday, wiping out footbridges and sending boulders downstream. One 46‑year‑old man died, 15 people remain unaccounted for, and 62 hikers were airlifted to safety. National Park Service officials warn of continued heavy rainfall as the monsoon season persists. The event underscores the growing danger of sudden flooding in dry, mountainous regions.
Flash flood in Grand Canyon kills one, leaves dozens missing
A sudden flood on the Bright Angel Creek corridor sent water, boulders and debris rushing through the canyon, destroying footbridges and uprooting vegetation.
The National Park Service confirmed that a 46‑year‑old man died near Crystal Rapids along the Colorado River, while 15 hikers are still missing. Sixty‑two people were airlifted from the canyon under the coordination of park rangers and rescue crews.
Officials warn that the monsoon season will continue, bringing more thunderstorms and heavy rainfall that could trigger additional flash floods, rockfalls and trail hazards.
The incident highlights the vulnerability of that region to extreme weather events, as dry ground allows shallow rain to run rapidly downhill, creating dangerous conditions for visitors.
The National Park Service urges anyone who saw hikers in the downtown area to contact the NPS for updates. Trail closures are in place until the damage to the park’s water infrastructure is assessed.
