A powerful flash flood has struck the Grand Canyon in Arizona, sending a sudden surge of muddy water through Bright Angel Canyon and forcing authorities to launch rescue and evacuation operations. At least 15 people were reported unaccounted for, while more than 60 people were evacuated from affected areas.
The flooding occurred after intense rainfall caused Bright Angel Creek to rise rapidly. According to weather officials, between half an inch and one inch of rain fell in roughly 30 minutes over the rocky terrain.
The sudden surge carried large amounts of mud, logs, rocks and other debris downstream. Footbridges and sections of trails were damaged, making movement through the area difficult and dangerous.
Phantom Ranch and nearby camping areas were among the locations affected. Parts of the Bright Angel Campground and North Kaibab Trail were closed while authorities assessed the damage.
Search and rescue teams continued working to locate people who may have been caught by the flood. Additional evacuations were also expected as officials examined conditions in the canyon.
The incident highlights the dangers of sudden weather changes in mountainous desert environments. Even short periods of intense rainfall can produce extremely powerful flooding because water moves rapidly through steep canyon terrain.
