Approximately 15 individuals remain unaccounted for following a flash flood in Grand Canyon National Park, the National Park Service announced Sunday in an official statement.
Eyewitness video footage captured by hikers reveals a powerful surge of muddy water rushing through trails and beneath footbridges, with logs and debris floating downstream accompanied by a deep rumbling sound.
The flooding struck the Bright Angel Canyon and Phantom Ranch area on Saturday, prompting immediate coordination between park authorities and Arizona emergency teams to evacuate visitors and identify missing persons.
Initial reports indicated over 20 individuals missing, though officials revised that number to approximately 15 by Sunday morning.
The flash flood event, which erupted around 2:30 PM local time, originated from intense rainfall on the Kaibab Plateau, according to park officials.
Authorities confirmed no fatalities or injuries have been reported in connection with the incident.
By Sunday morning, 62 individuals had been successfully evacuated, with additional evacuation operations ongoing as park service personnel assess the full scope of the situation.
The National Park Service cautioned that continued thunderstorms and heavy rainfall are expected through Monday, potentially worsening flash flood risks, debris flows, and hazardous trail conditions across the region.
The deluge caused significant damage to a critical water pipeline serving the park, leading to immediate implementation of water restrictions in high-traffic zones and a temporary ban on wood and charcoal fires.
Some overnight accommodations will temporarily suspend operations, though the park remains open for daytime recreational activities.
Reporting by FRANCE 24 with AFP