Flash Floods Leave 20+ Hikers Missing in Grand Canyon

Sun Sep 06 2026 11:59:51 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

After intense flash flooding in the Grand Canyon, over 20 hikers are missing, 62 were airlifted, and the National Park Service warns of more storms—no injuries reported.

Late Saturday, sudden flash flooding swept through Bright Angel Canyon and the Phantom Ranch area of the Grand Canyon, leaving more than 20 hikers unaccounted for. The National Park Service (NPS) has airlifted 62 people out and closed several trail sections while monitoring forecasted storms for Sunday and Monday. No injuries were reported, but hikers and locals are urged to stay alert for potential debris flows and rockfall. The Bright Angel Trail, one of the park’s most popular routes, may see extended closures as authorities evaluate the damage.

After a sudden rainstorm, flash floods hit the Bright Angel Canyon and Phantom Ranch area in the Grand Canyon, leaving more than 20 hikers missing.

According to the National Park Service (NPS), 62 people have already been airlifted out of the water‑affected zones, and no injuries have been reported to date.

The NPS warned that despite the current relief, thunderstorms and heavy rainfall are forecasted for Sunday and Monday, which could trigger additional flash flooding, debris flows, rockfall and abrupt changes to trail and river conditions.

Trails in the impacted sectors, including the popular Bright Angel Trail, have been closed until assessments are completed. The NPS is calling on hikers, backpackers and local residents who may have been in the area on Saturday to come forward with any information that could help locate missing visitors.

The Grand Canyon is the United States’ most visited national park, drawing around five million tourists annually. The Bright Angel Trail is a favorite among hikers, and safety measures are being reinforced as the park recovers from the storm.