Severe flooding in Grand Canyon: tourist destinations closed
A massive flash flood has hit Grand Canyon National Park in Arizona, USA. Rescuers are searching for several people after the disaster, while dozens of people have been evacuated from the dangerous area.
Grand Canyon Flooding Closes Tourist Attractions
A flash flood caused by heavy rains caused widespread damage in the Bright Angel Canyon and Phantom Ranch areas of Grand Canyon National Park on August 29. The water carried large rocks, metal structures and other debris into the Colorado River.
The U.S. National Park Service initially reported that more than 20 people were missing, but officials later said they were trying to locate 15 people. However, it is not confirmed that all of them were directly affected by the flooding; some may be safe but unreachable.
The National Park Service is asking anyone with information about hikers who may have been along Bright Angel Creek, on the North Kaibab Trail, at Bright Angel Campground, Phantom Ranch, or in an area north of it known as The Box to contact emergency services on August 29.
At least 62 people were evacuated by air after the flood. The Arizona Department of Public Safety, along with the National Park Service, was involved in the rescue effort.
The floodwaters destroyed almost all of the pedestrian bridges over Bright Angel Creek, making it impossible to cross the creek from one bank to the other. The flooding also caused significant damage to roads, bridges, and other tourist infrastructure.
The disaster also damaged the main pipeline that supplies water to tourists and permanent residents in the national park. The park authorities have therefore urged people to conserve water and have restricted the use of some hotels and bed and breakfasts for tourists.
Phantom Ranch, Bright Angel Campground and the North Kaibab Trail are closed until further notice. River travel and rafting have also been temporarily suspended due to metal structures and other large debris falling into the Colorado River.
According to meteorological data, heavy rainfall fell in a very short period of time. Steep cliffs and a sharp change in elevation caused water to rush down at high speed, creating a sudden flash flood.
With more heavy rain and thunderstorms forecast for the region, the risk of new floods, mudslides and rock slides remains. Tourists are asked to avoid closed areas and follow the instructions of rescue services.