Storm threat triggers chaotic evacuation ahead of Trump’s speech (VIDEOS)

Thousands of people were ordered to evacuate the National Mall in Washington, DC, on Saturday evening after severe storms threatened to derail President Donald Trump’s Independence Day speech and the country’s 250th anniversary celebrations.

The sudden evacuation came just hours before Trump was expected to address supporters at the “Salute to America 250” event, billed by organizers as one of the largest patriotic displays in US history.

Videos shared online showed crowds streaming away from the area near the Washington Monument, while others appeared to remain near the stage despite warnings from police and security officials. Attendees were urged to seek shelter in nearby museums, federal buildings and Metro stations as dark clouds gathered over the capital.

Security screenings were temporarily suspended, creating confusion over whether people who left would be allowed back in before Trump’s remarks and the planned fireworks show. Some military flyovers and other scheduled elements were also reportedly canceled or delayed because of the weather.

The event had already been battered by extreme heat. Washington’s Independence Day parade was canceled earlier in the day, while temperatures in the capital were expected to exceed 100F. Similar celebrations in several other East Coast cities were also disrupted by dangerous weather.

The White House had promoted the National Mall gathering as the centerpiece of a year-long celebration marking 250 years since the adoption of the Declaration of Independence. The official program included a full day of performances, ceremonies honoring service members, Trump’s keynote address, and what organizers described as the largest fireworks display in history.

Despite the storm warning, Trump was still expected to speak later in the evening, although the schedule remained uncertain.

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