On Tuesday, strong winds in Washington caused the National Christmas Tree at the White House to topple, as confirmed by a representative from the National Park Service, which oversees President’s Park where the tree was located. Crews are currently working to reposition the tree. The National Weather Service reported sustained winds at Reagan National Airport reaching nearly 20 mph since 8 a.m. EST, with a recorded gust of 40 mph just before 2 p.m. EST.
This 40-foot Norway spruce, sourced from Monongahela National Forest in West Virginia, is the second National Christmas Tree erected in President’s Park this year. The initial tree was replaced due to needle cast, a fungal disease causing the browning and shedding of needles on conifer trees.
Despite these setbacks, the tree is scheduled to be illuminated on Thursday in celebration of the holiday tradition’s 100th anniversary. In response to the incident, NPS officials released a statement on Monday evening, expressing determination to ensure the success of the event, stating, “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.” Further details will be provided by officials on Tuesday.