Germany orders mass evacuation after unexploded WW2 bomb is discovered in Cologne
Around 20,000 people had to leave their homes and schools and kindergartens were closed as the device was deactivated by experts
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Authorities in Germany ordered one of the biggest evacuations since the Second World War after a 200kg bomb dropped by US forces during the conflict was discovered in Cologne.
About 20,000 people had to leave their homes and schools and kindergartens were closed. Dozens of ambulances were sent to evacuate a nursing home. Even the air space was shut down.
However the deactivation of the bomb, which was found near Muelheim Bridge crossing the Rhine River, went smoothly, taking just 23 minutes.
Seventy years after the end of the Second World War, unexploded bombs are still found relatively frequently in Germany, generally during construction in major cities.
Cologne was a regular target for Allied bombers during the war.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments