President Donald Trump has delayed his Fourth of July speech due to severe weather conditions in Washington. Intense storms prompted event organizers to evacuate the area on Saturday. Police instructed crowds to move to safety, but some attendees hesitated to leave despite urgent announcements. Amid chants of patriotism, an announcer urged immediate evacuation for everyone’s safety, advising seeking shelter in vehicles or nearby buildings.

The Freedom 250 spokesperson, Danielle Alvarez, assured updates on event rescheduling and suggested seeking refuge in museums and federal buildings nearby. The Washington metro system confirmed open underground stations for shelter. The US Secret Service temporarily closed checkpoints for screening attendees, causing military flyovers to be canceled for the day.

Despite the weather disruptions, celebrations proceeded in some cities like New York, where tall ships sailed past the Statue of Liberty. The continuation of the Salute to America celebration remains uncertain, but Trump aims to deliver his speech at the rescheduled time. Trump had promised a lengthy address in honor of the country’s 250th birthday, expressing his determination to proceed with the event.