A massive flash flood in Grand Canyon National Park left more than 20 people missing and one person dead. The flood, triggered by heavy rainfall, destroyed footbridges and carried debris into the Colorado River. Authorities evacuated 62 people from Phantom Ranch and closed several tourist areas while assessing damage.

More than 20 people were reportedly missing and one person was confirmed dead after a major flash flood swept through parts of Grand Canyon National Park in the US, carrying boulders, metal structures and other debris into the Colorado River.

The National Park Service said it was working with Arizona authorities to evacuate people and account for those in the affected areas. Authorities also sought information about the missing and hikers who were in the area. The body of a 46-year-old man was recovered, marking the first confirmed death.

Flood Alters Grand Canyon Landscape

The flash flood began in Bright Angel Creek, which flows into the Colorado River, around 2.30 pm on Saturday. Torrents of water destroyed footbridges and significantly altered the landscape. Videos showed that the flooding appeared to have widened the creek bed and created what looked like a new river rapid.