Washington Monument Indefinitely Closes After Earthquake Causes Cracks

(Fox News)

A U.S. Park Service helicopter flies between the Washington Monument and the Capitol on the National Mall in Washington, Tuesday, Aug. 23, 2011, following an earthquake in the Washington area. (AP)

After reports of the Washington Monument possibly leaning due to a 5.8 magnitude earthquake that struck Virginia Tuesday, the National Park Services has revealed an inspection found cracks in the stones at the top of the Monument.

The NPS released a statement after completing a secondary inspection that structural engineers will evaluate the cracks Wednesday to determine the best way to repair the Monument before reopening it to the public.

The Washington Monument grounds have been reopened except for an area about 100 feet outside of the plaza.

The initial reports of the Monument leaning due to the earthquake have previously been called false by U.S. Park officials.