Evacuation of "National Mall" park in Washington as severe storms approach before Trump's speech

The American authorities ordered on Saturday the evacuation of the National Mall park in the capital Washington, following warnings of approaching severe thunderstorms, just hours before major events marking the 250th anniversary of the United States' independence, which include an anticipated speech by President Donald Trump.

The evacuation decision was made as a precaution to preserve the safety of tens of thousands of participants who gathered around the park to take part in the national celebrations, amid expectations of strong winds and heavy rains that could pose a danger to open gatherings.

The organizers of the "Freedom 250" events called on all attendees to leave the celebration sites and temporarily head to nearby government buildings and public facilities prepared to receive them until the weather improves, in coordination with the United States Secret Service, the Park Police, the National Park Service, and the Federal Emergency Management Agency.

The event spokesperson, Danielle Alvarez, confirmed that the safety of visitors, artists, and work teams is the top priority, explaining that the evacuation decision was based on weather estimates indicating approaching storms that could affect the course of the celebrations.

The temporary shelter sites included several federal buildings and nearby museums, including the headquarters of the Departments of Commerce, Education, and Agriculture, the Internal Revenue Service building, the "Voice of America" building, the Thomas Jefferson Memorial, in addition to the National Museum of American History, the National Museum of Natural History, the National Museum of African American History and Culture, and the Ronald Reagan building.

The authorities also urged attendees to remain calm, comply with the instructions of security forces and event organizers, and follow official channels for any updates related to the resumption of celebrations or modifications to their schedule.

This development comes as the American capital prepares to host one of the largest national celebrations in its history, commemorating 250 years since the declaration of the United States' independence, amid strict security and organizational measures and wide public participation.