The Smithsonian Institution announced the closure of seven locations along the south side of the National Mall on Thursday, citing a “mechanical issue” without providing further details. Affected museums include the National Museum of the American Indian, Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden, National Museum of Asian Art, National Museum of African Art, the Smithsonian Castle, Arts and Industries Building, and the S. Dillon Ripley Center. All other Smithsonian museums remain open and operating on regular schedules. Visitors are advised to check the Smithsonian’s website for updates as crews work to resolve the problem.