Thousands Evacuated in Berlin After World War II Bomb Found in River

Berlin faced a major evacuation on Thursday evening after authorities discovered a World War II bomb in the River Spree, triggering fears and forcing thousands of residents to leave their homes. 

Police confirmed that the explosive was uncovered during construction work in the Friedrichshain district.

A security cordon with a radius of around 500 meters was established, and officers went door to door, instructing residents to evacuate.

While police did not provide exact numbers of those affected, the evacuation zone included several embassies and local government offices. Reports indicated that a hospital within the security area would not be evacuated.

The bomb is being defused at the site rather than moved, with police warning that river silt could complicate the operation. The disposal process is expected to continue into the early hours of Friday morning.

In response, authorities suspended ship traffic along the River Spree, shut down streets, and halted an underground metro line. 

Temporary shelters were set up for residents unable to stay with relatives or friends. Police also announced that detailed maps would be shared to show which streets were affected.