Flash Floods at the Grand Canyon: A Reckoning of Risk and Resilience The Colorado River, a force both majestic and merciless, has claimed dozens of lives this summer as flash floods swept through the Grand Canyon's valleys and gorges.
Rescue efforts continue to unfold, prompting an examination of the science behind these deadly events, the history of disappearances at the iconic park, and the safety precautions that visitors can take.
Understanding the Risks of Flash Flooding in the Grand Canyon Flash flooding occurs when heavy rainfall in a small area causes water levels to rise rapidly, often inundating low lying areas with little warning.