Thousands Evacuated in Berlin as WWII Bomb is Declared Safe
BERLIN, GERMANY - On Thursday evening, September 18, 2025, thousands of residents in central Berlin were ordered to evacuate their homes after an unexploded World War II bomb was discovered in the Spree River. According to police, around 10,000 people were affected by the evacuation order, which was put in place as a precautionary measure.
The bomb, estimated to be from the late stages of World War II, was discovered by construction workers in the Spree River near the Berlin Mitte district. Authorities immediately set up a security perimeter of 500 meters around the area, with police officers going door-to-door to inform residents of the evacuation order.
"We are taking every precaution to ensure public safety," said a spokesperson for the Berlin Police Department. "We understand that this is an inconvenience for many people, but we must prioritize their safety above all else."
The evacuation led to long lines at emergency shelters, with hundreds of people waiting to register for a place to spend the night. An additional shelter was opened at a nearby school shortly after midnight to accommodate the high number of people.
Background and context: Berlin has been dealing with unexploded World War II bombs for decades. According to experts, there are still an estimated 2 million tons of unexploded ordnance scattered across Germany, left behind by Allied bombing campaigns during the war.
Implications for Society
The discovery of the WWII bomb highlights the ongoing challenges faced by cities like Berlin in dealing with the legacy of war. "It's a reminder that even decades after the end of World War II, we are still grappling with its consequences," said Dr. Anna Müller, a historian at the Free University of Berlin.
Current Status and Next Developments
On Friday morning, authorities announced that the bomb had been inspected by divers and declared safe. "We can give the all-clear," said a spokesperson for the Berlin Fire Department. "The area will be reopened to residents shortly."
As the city begins to return to normal, officials are already looking ahead to the next steps in dealing with unexploded ordnance. "This incident serves as a reminder of the importance of continued investment in bomb disposal and decontamination efforts," said Berlin's Mayor, Michael Müller.
Additional Perspectives
The discovery of the WWII bomb has also raised questions about the role of technology in bomb disposal. According to experts, AI-powered drones and sensors are being increasingly used to detect and inspect unexploded ordnance, reducing the risk to human lives.
"We are seeing a significant shift towards using technology to mitigate the risks associated with unexploded bombs," said Dr. Stefan Weber, an expert in AI applications for bomb disposal. "It's a crucial step forward in ensuring public safety."
As Berlin continues to navigate the complexities of its wartime legacy, one thing is clear: the discovery of the WWII bomb serves as a poignant reminder of the ongoing importance of addressing the past to build a safer future.
*Reporting by Dw.*
