Germany: Authorities defusing WWII-era bomb in Essen, North Rhine-Westphalia, late July 31

Event

Officials are defusing a WWII-era bomb in Essen, North Rhine-Westphalia, late July 31. Authorities reportedly discovered the device at Frohnhauserstrasse 95 and have demarcated a 300-meter (984-foot) evacuation radius around the site; approximately 321 people have been evacuated in connection with the bomb-disposal operation, which was scheduled to begin at around 21:45. Authorities confirmed that a Ruhrbahn support bus service would be established at the corner of Haedemkampstrasse and Richterstrasse.

Deutsche Bahn authorities have reported that the nearby Essen Central Station would probably be closed during the operation, causing train disruptions. Residual train disruptions are likely even after authorities finish their bomb-disposal work in the area. The heightened security measures will almost certainly cause other localized transport disruptions as well until the end of the operation.

Advice

Avoid the affected area until authorities give the all-clear. Check for transport disruptions before beginning journeys and allow extra time for travel. Heed instructions from local officials.