Search Launched for 15 Missing People After ‘Significant’ Flash Floods at Grand Canyon

A massive search has been launched for 15 people believed to be missing after “significant” flash floods swept through Grand Canyon National Park in Arizona on Saturday.

CNN reported on Sunday dozens of other people were evacuated safely following the heavy flooding hit Bright Angel Canyon, which anchor Brian Abel noting it is park’s “most popular” hiking trail. The flooding also hit the Phantom Ranch area, he said.

“Park officials say nearly all footbridges across the Bright Angel Creek have been destroyed,” Abel said.

The National Park Service said in a statement a day earlier, “Grand Canyon National Park staff, in coordination with the Arizona Department of Public Safety, are continuing evacuation and response efforts and working to account for individuals who may have been in the affected area.”

Abel then interviewed former FEMA External Affairs Officer Jason Peck to ask him how hard the search will be.

“This is one of the most difficult terrains in the United States to really conduct search and rescue operations,” Peck answered.

He said the big problem with Grand Canyon rescues is “you can’t get there except by paths and by helicopter,” which he said makes it “extremely challenging.” Another issue is the hikers face spending the night outdoors as the search is up against sunset in Arizona.

Peck said one facet which makes him hopeful, though, is officials using the term “unaccounted” for the missing hikers, which “doesn’t necessarily mean the worst.” Peck said those hikers could be without cell service, but search and rescue teams could possibly located them soon with thermal imaging technology.

“Officials said Phantom Ranch, Bright Angel Campground, Phantom Ranch Canteen, the North Kaibab Trail, the Black and Silver bridges and traffic to the Colorado River in the area are closed “until further notice.” A reopening date was not immediately available,” CBS News reported on Sunday afternoon.

Watch above via CNN.

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