Unknown event in Normandy, Gauciel area, France on Thu 21st July 2022

An explosive device dating from the Second World War was discovered today, Thursday 21 July, in the commune of Gauciel, near Evreux (Eure). The decision to destroy it immediately was taken by the Eure prefecture. Safety measures have been put in place due to the danger and weight of the device, notably with the evacuation of residents within a 270-meter perimeter around the device, while demining operations are carried out, which should last several hours, according to the prefecture. The evacuated residents were taken in charge and brought by bus to the 105 air base where they will be welcomed by the Red Cross. In order to facilitate the mine clearance operations, the population has been asked to avoid the Gauciel area as much as possible. At 10 pm, the prefecture indicated via a press release that the explosive device had been destroyed in a secure location. "Muffled noises or vibrations that were not serious could be heard in the vicinity. All danger is now over. Residents who left their homes will be able to return to them. In addition to the deminers of the Yvelines Civil Security, 33 firefighters supported by drones from the Departmental Fire and Rescue Service (Sdis27) and Air Force Base 105 were mobilized.