Germany: Unexploded WWII ordnance disposal to be carried out in Berlin on November 14

Event

Police have issued evacuation orders for residents in the Kreuzberg area of Berlin for early Saturday, November 14, following the discovery of an unexploded WWII ordnance. Residents will be required to leave the area from 08:00 (local time) to allow security forces to attempt to defuse the bomb. Those who are to be evacuated must adhere to social distancing measures and wear face masks due to the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic.

Disruption to transportation and business is expected while security forces attempt to defuse the bomb.

Context

The discovery of unexploded WWII ordnance is a common occurrence in German cities. While the majority of finds go unreported and only cause limited disruption, some discoveries lead to the evacuation of tens of thousands of residents. In 2012, a 250kg (500lb) unexploded bomb in Munich was deemed unsafe for transport and had to be detonated on site, causing structural damage to nearby properties.

Advice

Those in the Kreuzberg area are advised to monitor the situation, avoid the area, anticipate transportation disruptions, and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities.