Germany: Rail disruptions, evacuations in Berlin April 20 /update 1

Event

Berlin’s central Hauptbahnhof train station and surrounding area will be evacuated on Friday, April 20, beginning at 09:00 (local time) as a precautionary measure while experts work to defuse a World War II-era bomb discovered earlier in the week. The Deutsche Bahn, the national rail operator, is warning that rail services to, from, and via Berlin will likely be disrupted until at least 14:00; some services will be diverted to other stations and some may be canceled or rescheduled. Temporary road closures and disruptions to metro (U-Bahn) traffic are also to be anticipated. 

Context

Allied planes bombed Berlin heavily during World War II, killing thousands and destroying much of the city. Unexploded bombs are still regularly found in urban areas in Germany. On October 2, 2017, approximately 10,000 people were evacuated in Berlin after a large World War II bomb was discovered.

Advice

Travelers are advised to confirm rail reservations and be prepared for increased journey times; individuals in Berlin should avoid the vicinity of the Hauptbahnhof during Friday’s operation and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities.