The German city of Cologne evacuates around 20,500 people from a wide area of the city centre, so experts can alleviate three mis-explosive bombs from World War II.
The American bomb was found at a shipyard around Germany on Monday.
Misfire bombs still can pose danger, with the city sealed from the zone within a 1,000m radius (3280 feet), described as “the largest operation since the end of WW2.”
Homes, shops, hotels and schools are told to evacuate not only large hospitals and major train stations.
“If you refuse, we will escort you from your home – with the police if necessary,” authorities said.
Residents were told if they refused to leave their home after the evacuation began and could face expensive fines.
Some intensive care patients were helped by ambulances at Eduardas Hospital.
The country’s bomb disposal service is planning to spread 10 tons (10,000kg) and 20 tons (20,000kg) of bombs on Wednesday, but will not be able to do so until all local residents leave for their own safety.
Evacuations in the Old Town and in the German neighborhoods began with authorities visiting door to door and telling people that they had to leave the house.
Many of the city’s bustling streets were creepyly abandoned as shops, restaurants and businesses were told to stop operating during the day.
Cultural institutions including Philharmonic Hall and many museums, government buildings, 58 hotels and nine schools have been affected.
Transportation was severely destroyed, all roads were closed in the area, many trains were cancelled, and Mesz/Germany station was closed from local time (07:00 BST).
Authorities have set up two drop-in centres for those unable to get there during evacuation.
Residents were told to “settle down,” bring in IDs and essential medications, and take care of their pets.
Colognebon Airport said flights will continue as usual, but it may be difficult to get to the airport by train or road.
For some, evacuation was a bit inconvenient. Local media said 15 couples were scheduled to marry at Cologne’s historic city hall, but the ceremony was moved to another location in the city.
