The United States Secret Service suspended security screening at the National Mall on Saturday due to dangerous storms, just hours before President Donald Trump was scheduled to deliver his Independence Day address. The agency urged attendees to seek shelter immediately.
Checkpoints closed, shelter locations announced
In a post on X, the Secret Service stated, "CHECKPOINTS CLOSED -- SEEK SHELTER: Security screening on the National Mall has been suspended due to dangerous storms. If you are already on the grounds, follow directions from officers and event staff and move to shelter immediately. Do not shelter under trees."
The agency provided a list of designated safe shelter locations, including the Ronald Reagan Building, the Departments of Commerce, Agriculture and Education, the Internal Revenue Service building, the Voice of America building, the Thomas Jefferson Memorial, the National Museum of American History, the National Museum of Natural History, and the National Museum of African American History and Culture.
Trump hails crowds despite weather
Earlier in the day, President Trump praised the large crowds gathered in Washington for the 250th anniversary celebrations. In a post shared by Rapid Response 47 on X, Trump said, "Despite the heat, which isn't as bad as predicted, the crowds in D.C. are INCREDIBLE! The love of our Country has never been stronger!"
He also highlighted the air shows, stating, "The Air Shows are at a level never seen before - What great pilots, what great equipment!!!" Trump confirmed he would address the nation from the Lincoln Memorial at around 10:00 P.M., adding, "See you all later! Speaking at around 10:00 P.M. at The Lincoln Memorial."
Reflecting Pool and Independence Day message
Referring to the Reflecting Pool, Trump noted, "The Reflecting Pool looks great, despite all it went through with the Vandal Thugs. Will quickly drain and fix the damage done right after this big weekend." He concluded, "Happy Independence Day. Our Country is Stronger than EVER!!!"
July 4 marks the 250th anniversary of American independence. The White House noted that under President Trump, the United States is executing a full year of festivities, beginning on Memorial Day 2025 and continuing through the end of 2026. The White House is engaging all levels of government, the private sector, non-profit and educational institutions, and every citizen to celebrate this historic milestone.
