A sudden and destructive flash flood has caused major devastation inside the Grand Canyon National Park in Arizona, with more than 20 people reported missing or unaccounted for after torrents of water swept through the Bright Angel Canyon and Phantom Ranch areas. The flooding struck on August 29 after intense rainfall sent a massive surge through Bright Angel Creek, which eventually flows into the Colorado River. The force of the water carried rocks, mud, metal structures and other debris downstream, dramatically changing parts of the canyon landscape. Videos emerging from the area show the scale of the destruction, with raging brown floodwaters rushing through the canyon and debris being swept along at enormous speed.

Several footbridges crossing Bright Angel Creek were destroyed, cutting off important routes through the affected areas. Rescue teams have been working to evacuate visitors and locate those who remain unaccounted for. At least 62 people were evacuated from areas around Phantom Ranch and the lower North Kaibab Trail, with helicopters assisting in the rescue operation. The disaster has also caused extensive damage to park infrastructure. The Transcanyon Waterline, which supplies water to parts of the park, was damaged and rendered inoperable. Authorities have consequently introduced water conservation measures and warned visitors about the ongoing risks.

One person has been confirmed dead after a man's body was recovered near Crystal Rapids along the Colorado River. Authorities are continuing efforts to determine the whereabouts of those still missing, while asking the public to provide information about hikers or campers who may have been in the affected areas. The danger has not completely passed. Weather officials have warned that additional thunderstorms and heavy rain could trigger more flash floods, debris flows and rockfalls in the region. Several popular areas, including Phantom Ranch, Bright Angel Campground and the North Kaibab Trail, remain closed. With rescue operations continuing and more storms possible, authorities are urging people to stay away from closed areas. The disaster has highlighted how quickly weather conditions can turn dangerous in the steep and rugged terrain of the Grand Canyon.