A significant portion of Dresden’s city center is scheduled for evacuation on Wednesday following the discovery of an unexploded British World War II bomb. The 250-kilogram (551-pound) ordnance was found near the site of the former Carola Bridge, which itself collapsed into the Elbe River in 2024.
Dresden’s fire brigade has stated that this is the largest evacuation undertaken by the city to date for an incident of this nature. The operation is expected to affect approximately 18,000 residents, tourists, and commuters.
Large areas of the historic old town are slated for closure by 09:00 GMT, encompassing some of the city’s most recognizable landmarks. This includes the Frauenkirche Lutheran church, the Residenzschloss Palace, and the Semper Opera. The police headquarters, Saxony’s state parliament, several government ministries, and numerous care facilities for the elderly and young children are also situated within the area requiring evacuation.
Logistical Arrangements for Evacuees
Authorities are establishing emergency accommodation at the Dresden Exhibition Centre, which will be ready from 07:00 GMT. The city is also deploying additional buses and trams to transport individuals to this location.
The duration required to safely defuse the World War II bomb remains uncertain.
Historical Context of Dresden’s Bombings
Dresden was subjected to an air raid by British aircraft on February 13, 1945. In the subsequent days, British and allied American forces dropped close to 4,000 tons of bombs during the extensive assault on the city. The resulting firestorm caused an estimated 25,000 fatalities and devastated the city’s core, once celebrated as the “Jewel Box” for its Baroque and Rococo architecture.
The discovery follows the recovery of four other bombs during demolition work on the Carola Bridge in the previous year.
Controversy and Reconstruction
The bombing of Dresden stands as one of the more contentious actions by the Allied forces during World War II. Views on its strategic justification diverge, with some arguing for its necessity and others condemning it as a war crime.
The reconstruction of prominent sites such as the Semper Opera and the Frauenkirche took many years to complete.
Stephen Chaundy, a British tenor currently engaged at the Semper Oper, informed the BBC that rehearsals have been canceled for Wednesday due to the ongoing situation. Reflecting on the historical events, he remarked, “The past casts a long shadow.”