Flash floods hit Grand Canyon National Park, at least one dead and roughly 15 unaccounted for

Flash floods triggered by heavy rain and wind swept through Grand Canyon National Park in Arizona over the weekend, killing at least one person, according to the National Park Service (NPS).

On Sunday evening, the remains of a 46-year-old man were recovered from the Colorado River. Officials are asking the public to report information about anyone who was in the park when the flash floods hit on Saturday. Initial reports suggested more than 20 people were missing, but authorities later revised the figure to approximately 15.

Extensive damage

According to US media reports, the flooding caused widespread damage across several areas of the park, washing out pedestrian bridges and hiking trails and damaging campsites. By Sunday morning, 62 people had been evacuated from the Phantom Ranch camp and the North Kaibab Trail, with evacuations still ongoing. No injuries have been reported.

The flooding also damaged the park's water infrastructure, prompting strict water conservation measures in parts of the park starting Monday. Several hotels, campgrounds and hiking trails remain closed until further notice from the NPS.

Further risk warned

Officials have warned that heavy rain is forecast for Monday, raising the risk of additional flash flooding. The Grand Canyon, carved by the Colorado River over millions of years, is one of the United States' most famous natural landmarks and draws millions of visitors annually.