Washington Monument Observation Tower to Remain Closed

The stone monument at Washington Monument State Park in Washington County will remain closed until further notice, pending the completion of work to repair damage from a lightning strike that occurred Thursday afternoon.

Three people who took shelter in the three-story structure when violent thunderstorms rolled through the area were thrown outside by the force of the strike. One woman was treated for head lacerations at a Hagerstown hospital.

The lightning dislodged stones and cracked the mortar in several places.

Department of Natural Resources engineers assessed the damage Friday morning and determined that the monument is structurally sound. However, they recommended keeping the monument closed and the area around it clear until the work can be done. The Maryland Historic Trust will be consulted to ensure that the repairs are made according to all requirements for historic structures.