US News
Storms cause evacuation of Washington Independence Day event
Jul 4, 2007, 22:07 GMT
Washington - Advancing thunderstorms and threats of tornadoes caused authorities to evacuate thousands of people from downtown Washington a few hours ahead of annual Independence Day fireworks.
Authorities forced those gather on the Mall, a grassy area stretching 3 kilometres from the US Capitol past the White House to the Potomac River. It is lined by museums that are part of the Smithsonian Institution, government office buildings and major memorials.
Thousands of spectators, who gathered to celebrate the 231 anniversary of US independence from Britain, took shelter in 21 government buildings opened to shield them from the storm. Lines snaked around those buildings as guards conducted security checks on the spectators.
The crowds were expected to be allowed back on the Mall after several hours before the 9 pm fireworks.
Americans typically mark the July 4 Independence Day with fireworks displays, picnics and family gatherings.
© 2007 dpa - Deutsche Presse-AgenturCOMMENT
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