Three WWII bombs found in German city force massive evacuation operation

After the discovery of three World War II-era aerial bombs in Cologne, Germany, over 20,000 residents were forced to evacuate their homes. The operation to defuse the bombs took hours and was described as the largest evacuation in the city since the end of World War II.

The bombs, two American 20-hundredweight bombs, and one American 10-hundredweight bomb with impact fuses, were found during exploratory work in Cologne. The Düsseldorf district government’s explosive ordnance disposal service was activated to safely defuse the 80-year-old bombs, prompting the evacuation of residents and the closure of businesses and transportation hubs.

The evacuation also impacted the Eduardus Hospital, two retirement homes, schools, and the Cologne Messe/Deutz train station. Roadways were shut down, and shipping lanes along the Rhine River were suspended for safety measures.

After nearly 12 hours, the bombs were successfully defused, and residents were allowed to return to their homes. The National WWII Museum in New Orleans provided historical context, highlighting Cologne as a frequent target for Allied air raids during World War II.

The operation in Cologne serves as a reminder of the lasting impact of World War II on modern-day Europe. It also underscores the ongoing efforts to ensure the safety and well-being of residents in areas with historical remnants of conflict.

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