Thousands evacuated in Cologne due to unexploded WWII bomb

Approximately 7,000 residents in Cologne, Germany, have been forced to leave their homes after the discovery of an unexploded bomb dating back to World War II. The 20-ton American-made aerial bomb, complete with a detonator, was uncovered during construction work in the Porz-Westhoven district.

According to Report, which cites Bild, authorities have advised all residents within a 1-kilometer radius to evacuate the area. The evacuation order affects not only the 7,000 residents but also patients at a nearby clinic, residents of a retirement home, and a freight station. Explosive ordnance disposal teams are currently on-site working to defuse the bomb.

This incident marks the third time in the past week that Cologne has dealt with the discovery and defusal of WWII-era bombs. During the final stages of World War II, it is estimated that over 2 million bombs of various sizes were dropped on Germany, with 10-20% of them failing to detonate.