Falmouth, Cornwall. Photo: Shutterstock Residents in Falmouth, Cornwall, the UK, are being evacuated as military specialists prepare to deal with an unexploded World War II bomb discovered near Falmouth Docks.
The operation began Wednesday morning, September 23, after authorities revised the planned safety cordon following further assessment by military bomb disposal experts.
The cordon had initially been expected to expand from 300 meters to 1,400 meters, potentially affecting around 1,309 households. However, following final expert advice, the planned exclusion zone was reduced to approximately 755 meters. Cornwall Council said the revised area covers an estimated 339 households.
Falmouth diocks. Photo: Clare Louise Jackson / Shutterstock.comThe device was discovered in the water near Falmouth Docks on Monday. It is believed to be an American air-dropped bomb dating from the Second World War and weighing around 250kg, according to reports from the scene. Military Explosive Ordnance Disposal specialists have been assessing the device as authorities prepare for the next stage of the operation.
Residents inside the cordon were strongly advised to leave their homes by 9am on Wednesday. Police, council staff, volunteers and emergency services have been going door to door to make sure people inside the affected area understand the evacuation instructions.
The latest update from Cornwall Council at 11.05am said evacuations were continuing, with teams still visiting properties inside the cordon. Residents have been told to move outside the exclusion zone and not return until emergency services confirm that it is safe.
Anyone who has nowhere else to go can use a temporary reception area at All Saints Church on Killigrew Street. Support is also being provided for residents who need assistance leaving their homes.
The evacuation is also affecting local transport. Great Western Railway has suspended services between Falmouth Town and Falmouth Docks, with the disruption linked to the safety cordon. The operator has warned that services may remain affected while the operation continues.
Local bus services have also been affected, with Cornwall Council reporting emergency road closures and changes to services around Pendennis Headland and Falmouth Docks.
Authorities are asking people to avoid entering the affected area and to follow instructions from police and emergency services. Those who need medical equipment, medication or other essential assistance have been advised to tell officers when they are contacted.
The exact timing of the bomb disposal operation remains dependent on the work of military specialists. Residents inside the cordon have been told not to return home until police and emergency services confirm that the area is safe.
Cornwall Council is continuing to publish updates as the operation develops.