500kg WW2 Bomb Found Near Portsmouth Harbour Sparks Evacuation
Gunwharf Quays in Portsmouth has been shut down after a colossal 500kg German bomb from World War 2 was discovered this afternoon. The deadly device was found 60 metres from the harbour entrance during dredging works.
Royal Navy Bomb Squad Scrambles to Defuse Huge Threat
Specialist Royal Navy divers confirmed the bomb is still live. They are now working hard to recover and tow it to a safe spot for a controlled explosion, expected tomorrow (30th September).
A Royal Navy spokesman said: “An unexploded German 500kg bomb (WWII) has been found on the seabed in Portsmouth Harbour today (Sep 29).
The bomb was discovered by a dredging barge preparing the harbour for the arrival of the Navy’s massive new 65,000-tonne aircraft carrier, HMS Queen Elizabeth, expected next spring.
Evacuations and Disruptions Expected During Disposal
At midnight tonight, the bomb disposal team will tow the device 1.5 miles east of the Isle of Wight for detonation in controlled daylight conditions early tomorrow.
Queen’s Harbour Master Portsmouth says vessel movements will face minimal disruption during the recovery.
Hampshire Police added: “We’re supporting our Ministry of Defence police colleagues this evening after a suspicious device was found in Portsmouth Harbour earlier. Some local evacuations may be necessary to allow for the controlled disposal of the device. Ministry of Defence police will advise anyone who needs to take action.”
Transport Warnings as Ferry Services Adjust Schedule
- Wightlink’s midnight sailing will leave 15 minutes earlier from Portsmouth.
- There may be delays or cancellations for the 1am Fishbourne sailing due to safety restrictions.
Stay tuned for updates as authorities work to safely defuse this massive wartime bomb threat.
