On this day, 2003: Washington DC swept by hurricane

A massive hurricane has swept through the area around Washington DC, the capital of the United States. At least two deaths have already been attributed to the storm, known as Hurricane Isabel, since it hit the east coast late yesterday, wreaking widespread havoc with winds gusting at up to 150 km/h (90mph). By early today, most people in Washington had already taken shelter. The streets are largely empty, and much of the city has simply shut down, including federal buildings. Uprooted trees are blocking several roads, and many streets are covered in leaves, branches and fallen power lines. President George W Bush was among those who left the capital, going to his retreat at Camp David in Maryland, along with his guest, King Abdullah of Jordan.