Strong Wind Toppled National Christmas Tree in Washington, D.C.
A strong gust of wind toppled the National Christmas Tree in Washington, D.C.'s President's Park on Tuesday afternoon, just days before the annual lighting ceremony, the National Park Service said.
"As the saying goes, 'the show must go on' and the NPS and our event partners are looking at all possibilities to ensure a successful event this year," the park service said after the tree toppled over.
A crane was in place on Tuesday evening to try and lift the already-decorated tree, CBS affiliate WUSA-TV reported.
Winds were forecast to blow at up to 20 miles per hour in the area on Tuesday, according to the National Weather Service.
This wasn't the first time the nation's 'first tree' was felled by gusts. Heavy winds also toppled the 42-foot National Christmas Tree in 2011.
This year's tree was recently replaced due to a fungal infection, as reported by WUSA-TV. Christmas trees are susceptible to a wide range of diseases, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture.
The National Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony has been a tradition since 1923, starting on Christmas Eve. President Biden, the first lady, Vice President Kamala Harris, and the second gentleman are all expected to attend this year's ceremony.
Although the tree lighting is scheduled for November 30th, CBS will broadcast the National Christmas Tree lighting ceremony on December 15th.
