Thunderstorms are predicted for Washington D.C. this weekend, potentially disrupting or even canceling President Donald Trump's birthday parade. The parade is also intended to celebrate the Army's 250th anniversary.
The parade, estimated to cost up to $45 million, is scheduled to coincide with the president's birthday. Army officials have stated that rain alone won't halt the event, but lightning poses a safety risk to the crowd. In the event of lightning, officials may disperse the crowd or cancel or postpone the parade. The final decision will depend on the president's availability and the assessment of the weather conditions.
The forecast includes temperatures in the mid-80s in the afternoon, with the humidity making it feel warmer. The parade is planned to take place from 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. local time. Forecasters are concerned about thunderstorms in the area, which could bring lightning and heavy downpours.
The Army's Chief of Staff, General Randy George, will make the ultimate decision regarding the parade's fate based on the weather. Officials will consider whether the storm is passing through or if it is expected to intensify. The parade is set to feature approximately 6,600 Army troops and various military equipment.
The parade will showcase military hardware, including a WWII-vintage B-25 bomber, a P-1 fighter, Huey helicopters, M1 Abrams tanks, Stryker armored vehicles, and Paladin self-propelled artillery vehicles. The parade could potentially cost as much as $16 million to repair the streets of Washington, D.C. after the tanks roll through.
The parade has faced criticism from some lawmakers, including Senator Rand Paul, who compared it to military parades in the Soviet Union and North Korea. A recent survey indicated that a majority of Americans do not view the parade as a good use of government funds.
President Trump has defended the parade, stating that its cost is insignificant compared to its value. He emphasized the display of the nation's military capabilities. Protests are planned across the country to coincide with the parade.
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