A powerful detonation during the controlled explosion of a World War II bomb in Hanau has left an apartment temporarily uninhabitable. The city administration assured that affected residents would be assisted quickly and without bureaucratic hurdles. The explosion, which took place on Thursday afternoon, caused damage to multiple buildings due to the immense shockwave. According to the city, the device turned out to be different from what was initially reported.
The bomb had been discovered on Tuesday during surveys by the bomb disposal unit. As it could not be defused, authorities prepared a controlled detonation. Buildings within a 1,000-meter radius were evacuated, traffic and public transport were restricted, and a protective wall of 15 shipping containers was erected around the site.
Contrary to initial assumptions that the device was a phosphorus incendiary bomb, it was identified as a manipulated explosive, known as a “disruptive bomb.” The blast caused damage to several houses, affecting around 60 residents. No injuries were reported. Videos and photos online show the forceful detonation, broken windows, and damaged roofs.
After the evacuation was lifted, the fire department and psychosocial emergency services allowed residents to return to their homes to assess the damage. The city also implemented anti-burglary measures. By Thursday afternoon, officials stated that the damage caused by the shockwave was not as severe as initially feared, with most damages being minor. A telephone hotline was set up for residents to report damage.
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