Uncovering the Past: Bomb Defusal in Werl
In the town of Werl, a potential unexploded bomb from World War II is being defused today (28.09). Follow along for live updates on the situation as it unfolds.
Update 13:10 – The bomb disposal unit has taken over at the suspected bomb site on Humboldtstraße in Werl. The construction company Gordes has completed their work, and now the bomb disposal unit is carefully approaching the potential unexploded ordnance. The duration of this operation is currently unknown.
Update 12:15 – Dark clouds loom over Werl as rain begins to fall. Werl’s city spokesperson, Dirk Sodenkamp, reassures that this weather will not impact the ongoing work at the site: „We believe that the rain will not affect the operations, except for the fact that the construction workers may get wet. Rain should not hinder the excavation work.“ So far, progress is ahead of schedule.
Update 11:25 – According to the city of Werl, work at the excavation site is progressing well. Gordes construction company has dug a large trench 5.20 meters deep into the ground. The bomb disposal unit is set to take over soon, as they slowly approach the suspected unexploded bomb, estimated to be buried 6.90 meters deep. While it is yet to be confirmed if it is indeed a World War II bomb, experts are certain that the depth indicates it is a munition of some kind. Over 150 volunteers from the fire department, emergency services, and aid organizations, along with 100 city employees, ten construction workers, eight bomb disposal experts, and numerous police officers are involved in the evacuation and defusal measures.
Update 9:15 – The evacuation in Werl has been completed, with all residents around the Humboldtstraße evacuation zone safely out of their homes. This marks the official start of the defusal operation at the possible bomb site.
Update 8:30 – Most residents have now evacuated their homes, with authorities beginning the clearance of the area. Those who have not left yet are being evacuated by officials, who are authorized to forcibly enter and evacuate occupants if necessary. Work has commenced at the suspected bomb site, which is estimated to be buried 6-8 meters deep.
The day begins – Start of the Live Updates 7:35 – Saturday morning in Werl sees approximately 1000 residents up early, as the suspicion of a World War II bomb prompts action on Humboldtstraße. By 8 am, all affected individuals within the evacuation radius should have left their homes. For those without alternative arrangements, a free shuttle service is available to transport them to the evacuation center at the town hall. The bomb disposal process is expected to last several hours, potentially extending into the late evening.
As the town of Werl grapples with the delicate task of defusing a potential relic from the past, the community comes together to ensure the safety and well-being of all involved. Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story.
