A World War 2 bomb weighing 250kg was safely detonated in Plymouth following the evacuation of thousands of residents and the closure of multiple schools. The controlled explosion, conducted by bomb disposal experts from the Royal Navy and Army, took place after the device was discovered at a building site in Southway. The detonation caused a loud noise and smoke, triggering car alarms in the vicinity.

Plymouth City Council confirmed that safety inspections are necessary before allowing residents to return home due to potential debris from the blast. Prior to the explosion, sand was strategically placed around the bomb to minimize shrapnel dispersion.

Approximately 1,260 households within a 400-meter safety cordon were evacuated, with authorities urging locals to leave for their safety. Evacuated individuals were offered temporary shelter at Southway Community Centre. The council emphasized the importance of supporting the evacuation for the safety of everyone involved.

Chief Inspector Paul Laity of Devon and Cornwall Police stressed the need for full compliance with the evacuation measures. Once the area is deemed safe by the armed forces specialists, an update will be provided on the local authority website. Residents were advised to leave their homes with windows open, water supply turned off, and essential items taken with them to ensure their safety.