Trump pledges marathon speech despite extreme heat
Donald Trump has vowed to deliver a lengthy speech at the Fourth of July celebrations in Washington D.C. on Saturday, despite a forecast of 42°C (107°F). The 80-year-old US President told crowds in North Dakota this week: 'On July 4th, it's going to be approximately 107 degrees out, and I'm going to make a really long speech just to show that I can do anything.'
Trump later posted on Truth Social: 'There will be incredible Flyovers and Airshows featuring our Top Military Pilots and Equipment, and I will deliver keynote remarks that you will not want to miss. To conclude the program, and commemorate this Historic Occasion, I will be launching, what will be, the LARGEST FIREWORKS SHOW IN HISTORY, right here in our Nation's Capital. Do not miss it.'
Historic heatwave dampens celebrations
The United States is in the grip of a historic heatwave that has already affected Trump's 'Great American State Fair', which has been described as a ghost town after pictures showed sparse attendance. The heat has deterred crowds throughout the week.
The 'Salute to America 250 Celebration & Fireworks' event on the National Mall will begin at 7pm, with Trump scheduled to speak at 9.45pm, when temperatures are expected to be around 31°C (88°F). However, lacklustre crowds are anticipated due to heightened security measures that ban backpacks, coolers, camping chairs, sunscreen, bug spray, umbrellas, and outside food and water bottles.
Health concerns for the president
The extreme heat poses risks not only for attendees but also for the President, whose health has been under scrutiny. Swollen ankles, bruised hands, a neck rash, and alleged mental decline have marked Trump's second term. He recently turned 80. In late May, Trump visited Walter Reed Medical Centre for his third hospital visit in 13 months, undergoing a routine medical and dental check-up. He was declared 'fully fit' to serve after a CT scan, heart imaging, cancer screenings, and other preventative assessments carried out by 22 specialists.
The United States is marking 250 years since declaring independence from Britain on July 4, 1776. The event is expected to draw attention amid the heatwave and security concerns.
