DC Mayor Muriel Bowser announced today that the Metropolitan Police Department and DC National Guard will continue to enforce her “restricted access” order to the Tidal Basin on the National Mall and cherry blossom trees in the nearby area.  Bowser warned visitors to stay home and that there will be no restaurants, museums or restrooms available for those who attempt to visit.

DC Homeland Security and Emergency Management Director, Christopher Rodriguez announced that the city is preparing for a medical surge of COVID-19 patients.  The current number of confirmed cases has increased to 116 from 17 one week ago.  Rodriguez said the District is urging area hospitals to prepare for the surge by reducing the number of non-acute patients and cancelling elective surgeries.  DC Health is working to open, closed medical facilities to address the expected increase in coronavirus patients.