The National Park Service announced on Sunday afternoon that the Washington Monument would close for the remainder of the day due to high winds.
In response to a question asking if this is due to winds on the ground and confirming that the monument barely sways, the National Park Service clarified that the closure is due to their operations policy of not holding people in lines at the entry door in high wind conditions. “The Monument is not in any danger.”
Per the National Weather Service (NWS), “A Wind Advisory is in effect until 5pm Monday. Northwest winds of 20 to 30 mph with gusts up to 55 mph are possible. This includes portions of central, northern and southern Maryland, The District of Columbia, northern and northwest Virginia and the eastern panhandle of West Virginia.
Gusty winds could blow around unsecured objects. Tree limbs could be blown down and a few power outages may result. Use extra caution when driving, especially if operating a high profile vehicle. Secure outdoor objects.”
That's correct. The Monument is not in any danger. But holding people in lines at the entry door in high wind conditions is against our operations policy.
— National Mall NPS (@NationalMallNPS) March 10, 2024