2 dead, 14 missing or unaccounted for after Grand Canyon flash flood
Two people have been found dead and 14 others remain missing or unaccounted for after flash flooding in a remote area of Grand Canyon National Park in northern Arizona, according to officials.
The flooding began Saturday in Bright Angel Canyon and around Phantom Ranch, deep below the canyon rim, according to the National Park Service (NPS). Search and recovery operations are continuing, but forecasted weather may affect their timing and pace.
The NPS said Sunday it was trying to account for more than 20 people who may have been missing or unaccounted for. Two bodies have since been recovered, including that of a 46-year-old man near Crystal Rapids along the Colorado River, while officials are still looking for 14 people.
The flood caused extensive damage to trails, bridges, utilities and other infrastructure in the inner canyon. Preliminary assessments show that about 40% of the Transcanyon Waterline, which supplies water for use in the park, was damaged or destroyed.
The waterline is not operational, leaving the park with limited water reserves and requiring significant conservation measures.
Phantom Ranch, Bright Angel Campground, the Phantom Ranch Canteen and cabins, and the entire North Kaibab Trail remain closed until further notice. Visitors have been asked to stay out of the closure area as the search continues.
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Ella Rae Greene, Editor In Chief
