Grand Canyon: about 15 people sought after flash flood

A flash flood struck Bright Angel Canyon and the Phantom Ranch area of Grand Canyon National Park in Arizona. US authorities are searching for about 15 people who may be missing or whom they have still been unable to contact.

The National Park Service called on the public to provide any useful information about these people. Initial reports had indicated a higher number of people being sought before the figure was revised down to about 15.

Evacuations and searches under way

The flooding prompted authorities to evacuate visitors from the affected area. According to available information, 62 evacuations were carried out in the canyon, while search operations continued the day after the flood.

The area is popular with hikers. Several facilities were destroyed by the torrent of muddy water, according to reported information, and extensive closures were put in place in the canyon.

An area particularly affected

The flood mainly affected Bright Angel Canyon and the area around Phantom Ranch. Authorities continue to verify the status of people who were in this part of the park when the flooding occurred.

Search and evacuation operations therefore remained under way, with the number of people not yet located estimated at around 15.