How many are missing after the August 29, 2026 Grand Canyon Flash Flood?

Flash floods are a known natural disaster in northwestern Arizona. Intense rainfall over a short period of time during the monsoon season, which runs from June 15 to September 30, occurs in Mohave County and the Grand Canyon Region.

Because the 277-mile-long Colorado River runs through the National Park, it is susceptible to flooding; most recently incurring debris and boulders from the flooding that started on August 29, 2026.

On Saturday, the flooding began at 2:30 p.m. in the Bright Angel Canyon area, which has since destroyed all footbridges across the creek and caused the creek bed to widen, leaving hikers and campers in danger, including two dead.

Due to the dangers of outstanding debris and heavy rain, the National Park Service and Grand Canyon National Park authorities have closed Phantom Ranch, Bright Angel Campground, Phantom Ranch Canteen and cabins, the entire North Kaibab Trail from the North Kaibab Trailhead to Phantom Ranch, the Black Bridge and Silver Bridge crossing the Colorado River, and the Colorado River itself for all activities.

Each year, the region in and around the Grand Canyon National Park receives between 8 and 26 inches of rain, accumulating during the monsoon season.

That being said, major flash floods occur during the rainy season because the arid ground cannot absorb heavy rain quickly enough while water funnels rapidly into narrow side canyons and dry streambeds, often leading to severe flooding.

In response to the flooding, shelters have been established for those evacuating, and volunteers and authorities are working around the clock to find survivors.