22 Mar 2022 | 11:05 AM UTC
Germany: Authorities disposing of WWII-era bomb in Essen March 22
Authorities disposing of WWII-era bomb in Essen, Germany, March 22; increased security, transport disruptions likely
Event
Authorities are responding to the discovery of a WWII-era bomb in the Huttrop area of Essen March 22. The device was discovered during construction work on Am Parkfriedhof Strasse. Authorities will impose a 500-meter (1,640-foot) evacuation cordon and a further 1,000-meter (3,280-foot) security cordon within which all individuals must remain indoors around the device to facilitate the disposal operation.
Authorities will suspend traffic on roads within the security cordons, likely including sections of Steeler Strasse and the A40 and A52 motorways. They could suspend rail services using the nearby rail line, impacting services operating via Essen Hauptbahnhof. Public transport generally routed through the area will be canceled or diverted. As drivers seek alternative routes, increased traffic congestion is likely in the surrounding area. Authorities have not estimated when security cordons will be lifted.
Advice
Avoid the area until authorities give the all-clear. Check public transport schedules and local traffic conditions for disruptions before travel; plan alternative routes if necessary and allow additional time for travel.
