Flash Flooding at Grand Canyon Leaves Dozens Unaccounted For; 62 Rescued

Authorities report that more than 20 individuals remain unaccounted for following a significant flash flood event at the Grand Canyon.

The flooding occurred at approximately 14:30 local time on Saturday in the Bright Angel Canyon and Phantom Ranch areas, according to the National Park Service.

Emergency response teams have successfully evacuated 62 people from the affected area, with additional rescue operations underway. Officials confirm no injuries have been reported.

Nikki Baggs, 41, who was among those rescued, described the experience as terrifying. “It was a beautiful day and then people were screaming, running,” she told the BBC.

Baggs and her companions had deposited their belongings at a Phantom Ranch cabin—a remote lodge at the canyon floor—when conditions rapidly deteriorated. As heavy rain began falling, floodwaters surged through the area with little warning.

The group immediately sought higher ground, taking shelter at a picnic table until park rangers directed them to relocate to a secure ledge. There, they joined other evacuees awaiting rescue, remaining for several hours before being airlifted to safety at approximately 21:30 local time.

Reflecting on the ordeal, Baggs expressed gratitude for the coordinated emergency response. “It was a really uniquely coordinated effort. That’s what made us feel safe about all of it in an unsafe situation,” she noted.

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