Search-and-rescue efforts following flash floods in Grand Canyon National Park remain ongoing on Monday, though the possibility of more rain and thunderstorms leading to additional flooding is expected to hamper the emergency response.
The popular tourist attraction in Arizona started experiencing rapid flooding on Saturday after rain overflowed Bright Angel Creek. All footbridges along the creek were destroyed in the major flooding event, leaving more than 60 hikers and campers stranded, though they were safely evacuated by helicopter.
Four waves of rainfall over two creek drainages resulted in flash flooding, according to the National Park Service. About half an inch to an inch of rainfall occurred within half an hour, according to the National Weather Service.
The bodies of at least two dead people have been recovered, the park service announced Monday. The first recovered body was of an unidentified 46-year-old man. Authorities did not release any details about the second body. Another 15 people remain missing.
The Grand Canyon NPS office estimated that about 40% of the Transcanyon Waterline was either damaged or destroyed in the flash floods. The office also warned about the effect that forecasted inclement weather may have on the local search-and-rescue operations.
Many areas of the national park, including Phantom Ranch and Bright Angel Campground, remain closed to the public until the natural disaster subsides.
GRAND CANYON FLASH FLOOD LEAVES 1 DEAD AND SEVERAL MISSING OR UNACCOUNTED FOR, PARK SERVICE SAYS
The lower edge of Grand Canyon National Park near the Colorado River was primarily affected by the flash floods due to its lower elevation.
Recovery efforts are being led by the Grand Canyon NPS staff in coordination with the Arizona Department of Public Safety.