Aerial bomb found at Weigandufer in Berlin-Neukölln – closures in surrounding area announced

Closure and emergency shelter

For people who must leave their homes or workplaces within the closure zone, an emergency shelter has been set up, according to authorities. A statement from the district said on the matter in German: „Es wurde eine Notunterkunft eingerichtet, wo Betroffene versorgt werden sollen." Care for those affected is being provided, among others, by the Red Cross, according to the statement.

According to initial information, the closure zone encompasses parts of Weigandufer as well as adjacent streets around Sonnenallee. Residents have been urged to avoid the area widely and to follow instructions from emergency personnel. Ship traffic on the Neukölln Shipping Canal may also be affected by the closure.

Background: Unexploded ordnance in Berlin

Aerial bombs from World War II are regularly discovered in Berlin during construction work or movements in the ground. The defusal or detonation of such finds is coordinated by the State Criminal Police Office (Landeskriminalamt) and is typically carried out by specialized defusal experts from the Bomb Disposal Service. No information was initially released regarding the precise type of fuse or the size of the bomb found.

Impact on the district

The Neukölln district is one of Berlin's most densely populated neighborhoods. Closures around a bomb find have regularly affected traffic, businesses, and the operation of schools and day-care centers in the surrounding area in the past. Affected facilities and companies are usually informed in advance.

The emergency shelter is available to residents who are unable to use their homes during the closure and the defusal. In addition to sleeping places, beverages and meals will also be provided, according to the district. People with special needs – such as those with limited mobility – may contact emergency personnel.

Members of the public are asked not to enter the closure zone and to report any discoveries via the emergency number 110. Further information, including on the duration of the closure and the subsequent reopening of the area, is to follow during the course of Wednesday.