A large and complex rescue operation is underway in Arizona following a powerful flash flood that struck the Grand Canyon National Park. Extensive damage was reported to the site’s infrastructure, and hiking trails along camping areas were closed entirely.

Emergency forces began airlift evacuations from the area, while concerns are growing for the lives of at least 15 people reported missing.

The US National Park Service turned to the public for help in locating dozens of campers and hikers who were in the area when the surge hit.

Spokesperson Joelle Byrd said the reports refer to people who were hiking in the inner canyon area or in the North Kaibab and Phantom Ranch zones. The park asked for information from anyone who knows of people who were present on August 29 along the Bright Angel Creek, or who had lodging reservations in the areas affected.

Meanwhile, search efforts continue around the clock. Two helicopters from the Parks Service and Arizona’s Department of Public Safety are scanning the area between the Bright Angel Creek entrance and the Deer Creek Narrows area, as well as along the Colorado River. As of now, the aerial patrols have not led to the location of any missing people.

The flooded incident occurred at around 14:30 on Saturday and centered on the Bright Angel Canyon and Phantom Ranch areas-among the most popular destinations for visitors. At least 62 people were evacuated by rescue flights due to the extensive damage and transferred to the Maswik Lodge facility in the South Rim, where they received assistance from the American Red Cross. No reports of physical injuries have been provided at this stage.

The physical destruction at the site is considered the most significant. Nearly all pedestrian bridges crossing Bright Angel Creek were completely destroyed, cutting off the possibility for hikers to cross.

Park management announced a complete closure until further notice from Phantom Ranch, Bright Angel campground and all the North Kaibab trails, with no expectation of reopening.

Erika Viola, who was there with her husband Scott, described moments of terror. "We only heard people screaming, 'Run, run.'" She said that dozens of hikers tried to make their way through deep, muddy water. She added that immediately after they reached the bridge, a water surge about 4.5 meters high swept through the area, washing away the bridges, and they saw buildings, facilities and large amounts of equipment being carried downstream.