A deadly flash flood in the Grand Canyon over the weekend was probably driven by a confluence of climate factors, including drought, wildfire scarring and warming temperatures in the Pacific Ocean that can supercharge storms. At least two people have died, nearly 80 people were rescued and one remained unaccounted for after a surge of water and debris swept through the immensely popular tourist destination on Saturday. … Along with the potential impact from a previous fire, a severe drought that continues to affect the Grand Canyon region – and the Colorado River basin that runs through it – could have contributed to the disaster. The deluge unleashed torrents of rain on hardened and sparsely vegetated steep terrain that is less able to absorb and contain abrupt increases in moisture.

Related:

• Los Angeles Times: Flash flood in Grand Canyon left two dead. Extreme weather fueled the deluge
• The Washington Post: These forces drove the deadly Grand Canyon flash flooding
• KJZZ (Phoenix): During Grand Canyon floods, this emergency alert system may have helped keep people safe
• USA Today: Maps show what caused the deadly Grand Canyon flash floods
• AP News: Flash flooding causes major damage to the Grand Canyon’s critical water pipeline
• The New York Times: Two dead in Grand Canyon flood as search efforts continue