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Grand Canyon flood kills two
Archived — this story has rotated out of today’s deck. It is kept here in full.
The gist
Flash flood in Grand Canyon killed two, left 15 missing.
The disaster destroyed bridges and a dam, stranding hikers and tourists.
Background
A powerful flash flood swept through Grand Canyon National Park on Saturday, August 29, 2026, after heavy rain fell on already soaked ground. The flood caused significant damage to infrastructure, including footbridges and a water pipeline, and forced evacuations. Search efforts continue for missing hikers, many believed to be foreign tourists.
How it unfolded
- Aug 29, 2026Flash flood hits Bright Angel Canyon and Phantom Ranch, destroying bridges and a dam, forcing evacuations.
- Aug 30, 2026Officials report at least two dead and 15 missing; search and rescue operations begin.
- Aug 31, 2026Search continues for 15 missing; more rain hampers efforts; about 7 million under flood watch.
- Sep 1, 2026Family confirms one of the dead was a Texas hiker; two friends still missing.
Who’s saying what
- Official
- National Park Service and authorities are conducting search and rescue, but weather and terrain hinder progress.
- Expert
- Meteorologist Darren McCollum explains that torrential rain fell on already soaked ground, causing the flash flood.
Still unverified
The exact number of missing has varied from 15 to 20; some reports mention possible language barriers with foreign tourists, but this is not confirmed.