Germany: Transport disruptions and evacuations planned in connection with controlled demolition of World War II-era bomb in Gunzburg area June 23

Event

Transport disruptions and evacuations are planned in the vicinity of Gunzburg, Bavaria, June 23 after an unexploded World War II-era bomb was discovered in an industrial area near the town June 22. Authorities will establish an evacuation zone extending for 500 meters (0.3 miles) around the bomb effective 07:00 June 23 ahead of a controlled explosion planned later that morning. Parts of the Deffingen Sud industrial park, the Legoland amusement park, and the adjacent holiday village within the exclusion zone will remain cordoned off amid the operation. Officials will also close nearby parts of the B16 highway and the A8 highway between Gunzburg and Burgau to traffic from 07:00 to around 11:00 June 23 amid the demolition. While authorities have confirmed that the unexploded bomb poses no threat to the public, they have nonetheless advised individuals to avoid the affected area and take alternative routes.

Heightened security will almost certainly be deployed in the area during the controlled explosion. Public transport normally routed through the area may be canceled or diverted; increased traffic congestion is likely in the surrounding area as drivers seek alternative routes. Localized business disruptions are likely in the immediate area amid the operation.

Advice

Avoid the affected area until authorities give the all-clear. Reconfirm appointments in Gunzburg June 22-23. Check public transport schedules and local traffic conditions for disruptions before travel; consider taking alternative routes if necessary. Adhere to all instructions issued by local authorities.