A gust of strong wind toppled the National Christmas Tree in Washington’s Presidential Park, US television channels reported, citing the National Park Service.
This happened a few days before the annual tree lighting ceremony.
“As they say, ‘the show must go on,’ and the National Park Service is working with our partners to explore all options to ensure a successful event this year,” the service said in a statement.
The tree, which fell around 1:00 p.m. on Tuesday, was lifted by a crane at 6:00 p.m., television stations reported.
Experts assessed the condition of the tree and replaced the broken cable that kept it standing.
The National Weather Service predicted wind speeds in the area could reach 20 mph.
This is not the first time that the country’s “first Christmas tree” has fallen due to the wind. Strong gusts toppled a 13-meter tree in 2011.
