A powerful flash flood swept through the Grand Canyon in Arizona over the weekend, leaving at least two people dead and triggering a major search-and-rescue operation. The flooding struck the Bright Angel Creek and Phantom Ranch areas after intense rainfall caused torrents of water, mud, rocks and debris to rush through the canyon.
Authorities said around 80 people were rescued or evacuated from affected areas, while one person remained unaccounted for as search operations continued. Rescue teams faced difficult conditions because of the rugged terrain and additional storms in the region.
The flooding also caused extensive damage to trails, footbridges and other infrastructure. Several popular areas, including Phantom Ranch and the North Kaibab Trail, have been closed following the disaster.
One of the biggest concerns is damage to the Transcanyon Waterline, the main pipeline supplying water to parts of the park. Officials estimate that roughly 40% of the pipeline was damaged or destroyed, leading to water restrictions and the suspension of overnight accommodation in affected areas.
Authorities are continuing to assess the damage and have warned visitors about the possibility of further flash flooding, debris flows and rockfalls as more rain is expected.
