Severe flash flooding in the Grand Canyon over the weekend disrupted a central water line, prompting the National Park Service (NPS) to enforce strict water restrictions. The park faces the urgent challenge of locating missing hikers.
Beginning at noon on Monday, NPS will implement stage four water restrictions due to the Saturday flooding’s extensive infrastructure damage, including harm to the Transcanyon Waterline. This line is vital for water supply to the park. According to park officials, one fatality has been confirmed, and there may be 15 people missing, though this remains an estimate.
A body of a 46-year-old man was recovered from the Colorado River on Sunday night. His identity has yet to be disclosed.
The NPS has issued a call for public assistance to provide information on those believed to be missing in the Grand Canyon area. The request specifically targets individuals who know of hikers or backpackers who were along the Bright Angel Creek corridor as well as those with campground reservations in the impacted corridor.
The flash flood destroyed several footbridges that span Bright Angel Creek. In response, officials have evacuated at least 62 people since Saturday.
Stage four water restrictions will necessitate dry camping without access to water spigots, the temporary closure of overnight accommodations, and a prohibition on fires at the South Rim and inner canyon zones.
The flooding, which occurred on August 29, severely impacted Bright Angel Canyon and Phantom Ranch. Nearly all footbridges along Bright Angel Creek suffered destruction.
Arizona Governor Katie Hobbs stated that state emergency agencies are working in conjunction with federal and local authorities to continue the search operations. Governor Hobbs expressed her sympathy for families of those missing and confirmed that coordination with the NPS and Coconino County Emergency Management is ongoing.
Arizona Secretary of State Adrian Fontes described the flooding as ‘devastating’ while extending gratitude to first responders engaged in rescue operations. Fontes also reported physical damage to a historic lodge located near the site and significant environmental disturbance stemming from the flooding.
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