Hiker Found Dead After She Was Swept Away By Flood At Utah National Park

KEY POINTS

Warnings had been issued in the area about severe weather conditions
Several other people who were swept away by floodwaters were rescued
More than 170 people took part in the search mission for hiker

A hiker who went missing following a flash flood at Zion National Park in southern Utah has been found dead.

A search for Arizona resident Jetal Agnihotri began after a group of people was swept away by high flash flood last Friday. The body of the 29-year-old was found Monday, National Park Service said.

Agnihotri was trekking through The Narrows, a well-known slot canyon in Zion, with some friends when rapid flooding of the Virgin River pushed the group downstream. Agnihotri did not make it to safety while the rest of the group did. Her friends reported her missing Friday night, People reported.

In the search operation, which spanned four days, more than 170 responders from various agencies participated, with swift water rescuers and search dogs operating along the edge of the Virgin River, both inside and outside the park.

Her body was found Monday about six miles (9.6 kilometers) south of the location where she was swept away by floodwaters, Zion National Park spokesman Jonathan Shafer said in a statement.

"She's one of the most wonderful person that I have ever seen," said Mostafa Javadian, Agnihotri's friend and fellow hiker. "I mean she's kind with anybody."

According to the National Park Service, flooding increased the volume flowing through the Virgin River by up to 8,229 gallons (31,149 liters).

Agnihotri's death highlights the risks associated with hiking in Utah park during the monsoon season.

Flood warnings were issued for the region Friday by both Washington County, Utah, and the National Weather Service. According to Agnihotri's brother, she did not know how to swim either.

"Our deepest sympathy goes out to the friends and family of Jetal Agnihotri," Zion National Park Superintendent Jeff Bradybaugh told CNN.

Slot canyons in Zion National Park can be hundreds of feet deep and as narrow as windows. They rank among the most beautiful and popular places of the vacation spot but are equally dangerous in critical weather conditions.