Multiple Incidents at Grand Canyon National Park

Grand Canyon, AZ – Park staff responded to multiple incidents Friday, July 26, 2013. Monsoonal weather patterns resulted in localized flooding affecting portions of Grand Canyon Village and Bright Angel Trail. Additionally, rangers responded to two motor vehicle accidents.

An estimated 1.6 inches of rain fell within a short time period yesterday afternoon. The intersection of South Entrance Road and Village Loop Drive experienced minor delays as flood debris was cleared from storm drains. Run-off impacted Park Headquarters and Xanterra General Offices buildings.

Canyon District rangers reported flash flooding of Garden Creek along Bright Angel Trail. Rangers temporarily closed sections of the trail near Indian Garden until flows subsided in the creek. No injuries were reported.

All trails are open; but hikers should be aware that debris and washouts have impacted parts of the Bright Angel Trail between the Three Mile Resthouse and Phantom Ranch.

At approximately 3:00 p.m. the Grand Canyon Regional Communications Center received a report of a single-vehicle accident just west of Navajo Point on Desert View Drive. Two individuals were transported to Flagstaff Medical Center. Motorists experienced delays and temporary closures for several hours as crews worked to clear the accident scene.

Rangers responded to a second motor vehicle accident at approximately 3:30 p.m., near the intersection of Market Plaza Road and Center Road. No injuries were associated and visitors may have experienced minor delays.

The National Weather Service has issued a flash flood watch for Northern Arizona until 8:00 p.m. MST. Visitors are reminded to be aware of current weather and road conditions, and drive carefully.