President Donald Trump spoke at the July Fourth celebrations in Washington, D.C., marking America's 250th anniversary of independence, hours after the event was temporarily evacuated due to approaching severe weather.

The "Salute to America 250 Celebration & Fireworks" on the National Mall was delayed by several hours as attendees evacuated the area for safety. Despite the delay, Trump took the stage shortly after 11:15 p.m. and expressed his determination to deliver the speech regardless of the late hour. In a social media post, he said, "We will wait it out, I don’t care if it’s 2:00 O’Clock in the morning, or in one hour from now."

The White House was visible in the distance as people evacuated following warnings of incoming storms. A National Park Service employee was also seen distributing free water during the Independence Day events.

According to ABC News meteorologists, the preliminary high temperature in Washington, D.C., on Saturday reached 102 degrees Fahrenheit, making it the hottest July Fourth on record for the city.

Despite the weather challenges, Trump encouraged attendees to enjoy the night, stating, "It’s Saturday night, LETS HAVE SOME FUN, even if we are out late tonight. They say 11:00 O’Clock for the speech. Who cares???" He also remarked that "storms bring luck to whatever the occasion. They also make events a little bit more exciting."

People waited for the National Mall to reopen after the evacuation, continuing the celebrations honoring the nation's milestone anniversary.

Sources