Grand Canyon Floods Kill Two, Strands Hikers

A significant flash flood in Grand Canyon National Park flooded Bright Angel Canyon and Phantom Ranch areas, destroying footbridges and damaging critical water infrastructure while prompting extensive search-and-rescue operations and evacuations for dozens of hikers. At least two people have been confirmed dead, with numerous others initially reported missing or unaccounted for as recovery efforts continued; authorities warned the count could rise as searches persisted. Roughly 60 hikers and campers were airlifted to safety, and more than 60 individuals were evacuated from affected areas as closures extended to Phantom Ranch, Bright Angel Campground, and surrounding trails. The park and regional agencies cautioned that residual monsoonal moisture and forecasted storms could trigger further flooding, complicating response and conservation measures, including water-use restrictions on the South Rim. Investigations were under way to locate missing visitors and determine how many remained unaccounted for, with park officials urging the public to share any information about those in the affected corridor. Recovery and response teams continued coordinated efforts across the inner canyon and South Rim as authorities assess the full extent of damage to trails, bridges, and water systems.