The Statue of Liberty, which had been shut last year after a huge storm, has reopened to the public as Americans everywhere mark Independence Day.

Crowds are flocking once again to see the New York monument, which was swamped by tidal surges during post-tropical cyclone Sandy in October.

Events are also being held in Boston, Washington, Atlanta, Philadelphia and New Orleans to mark the US holiday.

Security precautions will be tight at major parades and fireworks displays.