Thunderstorms Threaten $45M Trump Birthday Parade Washington DC

President Donald Trump's planned military parade in Washington D.C. to celebrate the U.S. Army's 250th anniversary and his 79th birthday faces potential cancellation or postponement due to forecasted thunderstorms and lightning risks. The parade, expected to feature around 6,600 troops, dozens of tanks, military aircraft, and attract approximately 200,000 attendees, is scheduled for the evening but may be disrupted by severe weather conditions, including high humidity and possible downpours. Army officials, led by Chief of Staff General Randy George, will make the final decision on whether to proceed, delay, or cancel the event based on crowd safety concerns related to lightning. Security measures include over 18 miles of anti-scale fencing, 175 magnetometers, and multiple drones despite usual drone restrictions in D.C. The parade's cost is estimated between $25 million and $45 million, with President Trump emphasizing the event as an unforgettable celebration. Meanwhile, protests against the president are planned nationwide, highlighting the contentious atmosphere surrounding the event.