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Environment & Climate

Dozens evacuated by air following Grand Canyon flash floods

National Park Service officials closed trails and historic lodgings after floodwaters hit Bright Angel Canyon.

The short version

  • The National Park Service evacuated approximately 50 people by air from Grand Canyon National Park on Saturday following flash flooding.
  • The flooding impacted Bright Angel Canyon and the Phantom Ranch area, though no injuries were reported.
  • Officials have closed Phantom Ranch and the entire North Kaibab Trail until further notice while lodge operators address guest reservations.

Key facts

  • Flash floods hit Bright Angel Canyon in Grand Canyon National Park on Saturday afternoon.[CBS News]
  • The National Park Service initiated an aerial evacuation of roughly 50 individuals around Phantom Ranch.[CBS News]
  • No injuries were reported in connection with the flooding.[CBS News]
  • Phantom Ranch and the North Kaibab Trail were closed indefinitely following the event.[CBS News]

What remains uncertain

  • The full extent of structural or environmental damage and the exact timeline for reopening Phantom Ranch and North Kaibab Trail remain unspecified.[CBS News]

Sources