AJU PRESS ASIA FIRST NEWS AGENCY

Weather Disrupts 250th Anniversary Celebration of U.S. Independence

by Hwang Jin Hyun Posted : July 5, 2026, 10:16Updated : July 5, 2026, 10:16
A federal agent guides participants to evacuate as a storm is forecasted ahead of the 250th anniversary celebration of independence attended by President Donald Trump in Washington, D.C. on July 4.
A federal agent guides participants to evacuate as a storm is forecasted ahead of the 250th anniversary celebration of independence attended by President Donald Trump in Washington, D.C. on July 4. [Photo=Reuters]
Severe thunderstorms and high winds disrupted the planned 250th anniversary celebration of U.S. independence on July 4 in Washington, D.C.
According to CNN, the event, titled "A Salute to America," which was set to feature a speech by President Donald Trump and a large fireworks display, was temporarily halted due to inclement weather. The nearby "Great American Festival" was also postponed until conditions improved.
Later in the afternoon, strong gusts were reported in the D.C. area, with thunderstorms anticipated. Attendees were advised to seek shelter in nearby museums and government buildings.
A spokesperson for the event organizers, "Freedom 250," explained that the risk posed by storms and lightning could endanger the large crowds who had been waiting in the heat for an extended period.
The adverse weather also affected celebrations in other regions. CNN reported that rain clouds covering the eastern United States led to the postponement of a fireworks display scheduled in Boston for the same occasion.



* This article has been translated by AI.

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