World War II Bomb Discovery in Cologne Triggers Massive Evacuation Effort

A 10-ton American bomb found near hospitals in Merheim is set for defusal on Friday, prompting the largest evacuation in Cologne since WWII.

The bomb, discovered on the grounds of the Städtische Kliniken, has a 500-meter danger zone affecting around 6,400 residents.
Evacuation includes 642 patients from three hospitals and 278 residents from a nearby senior home.
The operation involves 1,300 personnel, including police, firefighters, and volunteers, and could take up to 48 hours.
An evacuation center will be set up at Gesamtschule Holweide, with shuttle services provided for affected residents.
Authorities advise residents to prepare by planning alternative accommodations and bringing essential items like IDs and medications.