New Delhi, July 5 -- As Americans came forward on Saturday (local time) to celebrate the 250th birthday, the weather appeared to daunt their spirits after over 10,000 attendees in Washington, D.C., were asked to seek shelter as thunderstorms threatened the area.

All attendees were advised to take shelter in buildings near the National Mall in the capital city after the organizers delayed the start of the "Salute to America" events, media outlets reported. Further, the National Mall, which is hosting the Freedom 250 Fourth of July celebrations, was evacuated temporarily at around 7 pm ET due to severe weather.

Freedom 250 spokesperson Danielle Alvarez, in a statement, said, "The safety of our guests, performers, and staff is our top prio...