Survivors of a deadly flash flood that tore through the Grand Canyon over the weekend have described a harrowing escape, recounting their desperate race to reach higher ground as muddy waters surged around them.

The disaster struck Saturday afternoon in the Bright Angel Canyon and Phantom Ranch areas, triggered by a powerful monsoonal downpour. Backpackers Gabriel Bergemann and David Gregory were among those caught in the deluge. Park rangers urgently directed them to evacuate across a footbridge over a rapidly swelling creek.

Bergemann told ABC News that just 10 minutes after they crossed, the bridge was washed away by a wall of water. He emphasized the critical role of the timely evacuation order, stating, "If they hadn't told us to evacuate when they did, I think a lot of people wouldn't have made it." Gregory noted the creek's water level was continuously rising, expressing concern about anyone who might have fallen in.

As of Monday, Grand Canyon National Park Service officials confirmed that a second body had been recovered. A search remains underway for over a dozen individuals who are still missing or unaccounted for following the event. One of the deceased was identified as Dr. John Giusti, a Texas chiropractor, whose family confirmed his death.

More than 60 people, primarily hikers and campers, were airlifted from Phantom Ranch and the lower North Kaibab Trail on Saturday. The flash flood occurred around 2:30 p.m. local time, inundating the canyon floor.

Scott Svedin, who was camping with his wife Erica Viola at Bright Angel Campground, described the experience as "something out of a movie." They, too, received immediate evacuation orders.

The incident highlights the unpredictable and dangerous nature of flash floods in arid environments, particularly during monsoon seasons. The rapid rise of water levels can transform normally placid washes into deadly torrents in a matter of minutes.

Officials are continuing search efforts for the missing, while investigations into the full extent of the damage and the sequence of events are ongoing. The tragic outcome serves as a stark reminder of the power of nature and the importance of adhering to safety warnings in national parks.