Cologne's WWII Bomb Scare: 20,000 Evacuated in Largest Operation Since 1945

Cologne Evacuates Thousands as WWII Bombs Are Defused Cologne, Germany – In a major operation reminiscent of the city's post-war recovery, authorities in Cologne, Germany, evacuated over 20,000 residents on June 4th, 2025, to defuse three unexploded World War II bombs. The devices, discovered during construction work, posed a significant threat, prompting a large-scale evacuation effort. "This is the largest evacuation in Cologne since 1945," stated a Cologne police spokesperson, underscoring the gravity of the situation. The operation involved the coordinated efforts of police, firefighters, and bomb disposal experts. Footage shows residents calmly leaving their homes, while specialists carefully handled the bombs, which weighed between 1,500kg and 2,000kg. The meticulous process of defusal and removal was captured on camera, highlighting the expertise required to handle such dangerous materials. One resident commented, "It was a bit unsettling, but we understood the necessity of the evacuation." The operation was completed successfully, with no injuries reported. This event serves as a stark reminder of the lingering legacies of war and the importance of continued vigilance.