More than 400 Homes Evacuated in Northern Ireland to Remove World War II Bomb

A World War Two bomb is seen being removed a few days after being discovered in the dried-up river Po which suffered from the worst drought in 70 years, in Borgo Virgilio, Italy on August 7, 2022. (Reuters)
A World War Two bomb is seen being removed a few days after being discovered in the dried-up river Po which suffered from the worst drought in 70 years, in Borgo Virgilio, Italy on August 7, 2022. (Reuters)
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More than 400 Homes Evacuated in Northern Ireland to Remove World War II Bomb

A World War Two bomb is seen being removed a few days after being discovered in the dried-up river Po which suffered from the worst drought in 70 years, in Borgo Virgilio, Italy on August 7, 2022. (Reuters)
A World War Two bomb is seen being removed a few days after being discovered in the dried-up river Po which suffered from the worst drought in 70 years, in Borgo Virgilio, Italy on August 7, 2022. (Reuters)

Police in Northern Ireland ordered the evacuation of more than 400 homes to remove what is suspected to be a World War II-era bomb.

The removal operation could take more than five days, police said Sunday.

The device was discovered Friday in Newtownards, an area of County Down, about 9 miles (15 kilometers) east of Belfast.

“I appreciate the disruption that this has caused, however keeping people safe is paramount and we will not take any risks," North Down and Ards District Commander Superintendent Johnston McDowell said. “I want to thank those who may be affected for their patience at this time.”

Police had set up barricades and asked drivers to avoid the area.

An emergency support center was set up for residents who had to move out of their homes.



Fire Breaks Out at London's Somerset House, Home to Priceless Works by Van Gogh, Cezanne

Smoke can be seen pouring from the roof of Somerset House in central London - Reuters
Smoke can be seen pouring from the roof of Somerset House in central London - Reuters
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Fire Breaks Out at London's Somerset House, Home to Priceless Works by Van Gogh, Cezanne

Smoke can be seen pouring from the roof of Somerset House in central London - Reuters
Smoke can be seen pouring from the roof of Somerset House in central London - Reuters

A fire broke out Saturday at Somerset House, a large arts venue on the River Thames in central London.

Smoke billowed from the building and flames could be seen coming from the roof as firefighters on tall ladders showered it with water.

The cause of the fire was not yet known, the London Fire Brigade said. Fifteen engines and about 100 firefighters were deployed.

Somerset House said all staff and the public were safe and the site was closed. The venue had been scheduled to host a breakdancing event.

The neoclassical building, which is nearly 250 years old, houses the Courtauld Gallery that features works by Van Gogh, Manet and Cezanne.