Border Patrol search-and-rescue teams have joined a multi-agency operation at the Grand Canyon after severe flooding left several people missing near Bright Angel Creek and Phantom Ranch, officials said.
About 80 people have been rescued following the flash flooding of Bright Angle Canyon. The Arizona Department of Safety wrote that over the weekend 61 civilians have been airlifted safely from the canyon floor.
A CNN report confirms that at least two hikers had died in the flooding, while one person remained unaccounted for. “In the beginning, it was a normal thunderstorm,” Jesse Jaremczak told CNN. “Then the supercell monster came.”
The flooding comes as the Grand Canyon faces increased water restrictions amid diminishing water reserves. According to the National Park Service, fires within Mather and Desert View Campgrounds are strictly prohibited.
Additionally, guests and park staff are asked to:
- Limit showers to five minutes or less
- Shut off faucets while brushing teeth or shaving
- Wash only full loads of laundry and dishes
- Selectively flush toilets
- Report leaks to the appropriate office or staff
“Water conservation on the South Rim remains critical,” The National Park Service wrote on Facebook. “Every gallon saved extends the park's available stored water and gives teams additional time to assess damage, evaluate water delivery options and develop a path forward."
In a post on Facebook, Rep. Eli Crane (R-AZ) commended United States Border Patrol for their assistance in search operations, thanking them for their efforts.
This is a developing story.
