Cologne's Largest WWII Bomb Evacuation Since 1945

Cologne recently witnessed its largest evacuation since World War II, as authorities defused three unexploded bombs. The discovery of these massive WWII-era bombs, weighing up to 2000 kilograms each, necessitated the evacuation of over 20,000 residents. The operation affected significant parts of the city, turning bustling areas into ghost towns as residents, hospitals, care homes, and even media houses like RTL had to be evacuated.

The defusal operation was carried out by expert teams who meticulously worked to ensure the bombs were safely neutralized. Despite some delays caused by a resident's refusal to evacuate, the process concluded successfully without any incidents.

Cologne, a major target during WWII, often encounters such remnants, requiring periodic evacuations. The city's administration, led by Mayor Henriette Reker, coordinated the complex operation efficiently, ensuring residents' safety and minimizing disruption. As the bombs were defused, the city began returning to normalcy, with roads reopening and citizens returning to their homes. This incident highlights the enduring legacy of WWII and the ongoing challenges posed by unexploded ordnance in urban areas.