Full Breakdown
Unexploded World War II Bombs Prompt Evacuations in Devon
1/15/2026, 10:48:21 PM
Overview of the Incidents
Recent discoveries of unexploded World War II bombs in Devon have led to significant evacuations and emergency responses in two separate locations: Exmouth and Plymouth. On Wednesday, a 400-meter cordon was established around Exmouth Marina after a suspected unexploded device was dredged from the water. Concurrently, a 100-meter cordon was set up at a building site in Plymouth following the discovery of a 50kg German bomb. Collectively, these incidents have resulted in the evacuation of approximately 5,000 residents.
Details of the Evacuations
In Exmouth, East Devon District Council reported that around 2,000 properties were affected, with residents warned they might not be able to return home immediately. Councillor Paul Arnott stated, “It would be dishonest of me not to say there is another night of this, where people are going to have to be in temporary accommodation.” The local police emphasized the seriousness of the situation, describing the device as a "very large WW2 German bomb."
In Plymouth, the bomb was identified as a Luftwaffe SC50 general-purpose bomb. Residents in the vicinity were initially evacuated but were allowed to return home later that evening. However, they were advised that further evacuations might be necessary as bomb disposal efforts continued.
Community Response and Impact
The incidents have disrupted daily life in both towns. Schools, including Millbay Academy, were closed, and local businesses faced uncertainty. One café owner in Plymouth expressed defiance, stating, “No WW2 bomb will stop us from closing. We are still open today.” Meanwhile, community members have shown solidarity, with some offering support to those displaced by the evacuations.
Official Statements and Responses
Plymouth City Council confirmed the presence of the unexploded ordnance and the involvement of Royal Navy bomb disposal experts. They noted that operations would pause overnight due to limited daylight and the need for additional equipment. A spokesperson for the council urged the public to avoid the Millbay area for safety reasons.
Criticism and Opposition
While the response from emergency services has been largely praised, some residents expressed frustration over the uncertainty regarding when they could return home. Office worker Fiona Bolt remarked, “We don't know when we're going to get back. I don't know when I can open my office again.”
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
There are discrepancies regarding the exact number of properties evacuated and the potential duration of the evacuations. While some reports indicate that 5,000 residents were affected, others suggest that the number may vary based on ongoing assessments by local authorities.
Verbatim Quotes
- “There will be significant impacts to the town.” — Exmouth Police
- “'It's a relatively small bomb but you don't want even a relatively small bomb going off in a relatively built up area.” — Dr. Harry Bennett, Plymouth University
- “He added: 'A huge thank you to all the teams working around the clock to bring this situation to a safe conclusion, particularly in very wet and challenging conditions.” — David Reed, Devon MP
The situation remains fluid as authorities continue to assess and manage the risks associated with these unexploded devices.
