King Charles III was left asking "Where's the umbrella?" after being caught in a sudden downpour during Antigua and Barbuda's Independence Day parade. The 77-year-old monarch struggled to get anyone's attention while standing in the rain, repeating the question as he gestured with his arms before an aide eventually rushed over to help.
Royal Couple Caught in Heavy Rain
The King is on a nine-day official tour of the Caribbean and South America. Over the weekend, he was joined by his wife, Queen Camilla, in Antigua and Barbuda. The royal pair arrived for the 45th annual Independence Parade at Sir Vivian Richards Stadium at around 6:30pm.
However, the erratic weather stole the spotlight, leaving both them and the crowds thoroughly drenched. Camilla, wearing a white Anna Valentine gown, quickly turned to request an umbrella from her staff members. After signalling multiple times, a personal protection officer hurried to her assistance.
King Inspects Guard of Honour
Queen Camilla gratefully accepted the clear umbrella and headed towards the covered seating area to take her place for the rest of the parade. King Charles, however, did not get so lucky and struggled to get anyone's attention while standing in the downpour.
After being handed a small black umbrella, the King made his way onto the cricket ground to inspect the Guard of Honour. Rain continued to fall heavily as dozens of troops remained at attention on the cricket pitch, now serving as a parade ground.
Good Humour Despite the Weather
The King then inspected the service personnel under the umbrella, then greeted cheering crowds. He returned the warm welcome with a smile and wave. The heavy downpour ended as quickly as it started, lasting no more than five minutes before the celebratory programme resumed.
Despite looking a bit worried when the rain started lashing down, the King showed his good humour with his response. King Charles later joked: "I've started growing watercress on my trousers".
The royal couple met prominent figures recognised for their contributions to public life, spanning culture, sport, education and community service. The King is also opening the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting, which takes place from November 1-4.
