Bomb Defusal: World War II Bomb in Elbe River Near Heidenau Requires Monday Evacuation

An evacuation is planned for residents near Heidenau in the Sächsische Schweiz-Osterzgebirge district of Germany due to the discovery of a World War II bomb in the Elbe River. The 250-kilogram aerial bomb is scheduled for defusal on Monday by the ordnance disposal service.

An evacuation radius of approximately 1,000 meters has been established around the bomb's location in the Heidenau/Pratzschwitz area. Residents are required to leave the restricted zone by 9:00 AM on Monday. Following the evacuation, police will conduct checks to ensure the area is clear of any remaining individuals.

Authorities have stated that an immediate evacuation is not necessary, as the situation allows for a planned defusal operation. Police forces are currently securing the site. Parts of Heidenau and Pratzschwitz are affected by the evacuation order. Information regarding emergency shelters and further details will be provided by the municipalities of Heidenau and Pirna. The police will also post real-time updates on the defusal progress via their social media channels.