Video shows quake from inside Wash. Monument

WASHINGTON - The National Park Service on Monday released three videos showing shaking, falling debris, and fleeing visitors inside the top level of the Washington Monument during the August 23 earthquake that struck near Washington

The three videos were taken by mounted cameras on the 500-foot observation level of the monument and show visitors and park rangers escaping down a stairwell as the structure shakes for more than 10 seconds.

The new images came as the Park Service said in a press conference Monday that the monument would remains closed indefinitely to visitors because the quake damage.

Structural engineers have completed a preliminary inspection of the monument's interior, where numerous cracks and chips were found after the 5.8-magnitude quake on Aug. 23. Starting Tuesday, engineers will begin rappelling down the sides of the monument to check for damage on the exterior.

Watch: Inside the monument during the earthquake
More videos at National Park Service site

Dozens of pieces of stone fell in the interior of the monument during and after the quake, and Park Service officials say they need to make sure the obelisk is safe before the public is allowed inside.

The Park Service revealed Monday that the monument's elevator sustained minor damage during the quake. The elevator is working again.

Earlier:

Washington Monument to remain closed
Earthquake damages Washington monument
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