At least 20 hikers missing as terrifying flash floods swamp the Grand Canyon with huge evacuations effort underway

AT LEAST 20 hikers are missing after terrifying flash floods swamped the Grand Canyon with huge evacuation efforts underway. The flooding first hit the popular landmark on Saturday afternoon as the deluge swept large boulders, metal structures, and other debris into the Colorado River. Torrents of water wiped out footbridges as mudslides obliterated the creek and created what appeared to be a new river rapid. The missing hikers were reportedly trekking near the remote Phantom Ranch which can only be accessed by foot, mule or raft. Half an inch of rain fell in just 30 minutes as the northern side of the Grand Canyon swiftly flooded. Shocking footage shows a thick river of brown sludge churning through the canyon with smashed bunkhouses and bits of wooden bridge. READ MORE Multiple ranches and campgrounds along the creek are no longer accessible as bridges were swept away or destroyed in the powerful tides. A desperate rescue mission has been launched to track down 20 people who are currently unaccounted for. More than 60 people were also forced to flee several hiking spots nearby. Evacuations of Bright Angel Campground, Phantom Ranch and parts of the North Kaibab trail are still ongoing, park officials said. Most read in The Sun Witness Erica Viola, who was staying at Bright Angel camp, said she and about 50 other hikers watched in horror as the creek rose and began to wash debris past them. She spotted an entire bunkhouse be swallowed up and smashed in the powerful tides. Erica and the other hikers at Bright Angel camp were airlifted out of the danger zone by helicopter and no injuries were reported. Park administrators warned that the floods had “eliminated hiker access” over the waterbed – potentially leaving visitors stranded. They asked anyone with details about people hiking or camping in the area to get in touch. It said it was working with the Arizona Department of Public Safety to continue evacuations Sunday. Jack Schmidt, director of the Center for Colorado River Studies at Utah State University, said it was a reminder of what a dynamic and active landscape the Grand Canyon is. More rain and thunderstorms are forecast for Monday. Phantom Ranch, Bright Angel Campground, the Phantom Ranch Canteen and cabins, and the entire North Kaibab Trail from the North Kaibab Trailhead to Phantom Ranch are closed until further notice.