WWII-Era Bomb Explodes at Japanese Airport

Miyazaki, Japan A 500-pound US bomb believed to have been dropped during WWII, exploded at Miyazaki Airport in southwest Japan, causing a crater in a taxiway and leading to the cancellation of over 80 flights. Fortunately, there were no casualties, and no aircraft were in the vicinity at the time of the blast.

It's unclear what initiated the explosion but the resulting detonation left a hole about 23 feet wide, was confirmed by an investigation conducted by the Self-Defense Forces and the police. Despite the disruption, there is no further danger. This incident highlights the ongoing risk posed by unexploded bombs from WWII in the region, with similar munitions occasionally being unearthed, especially at construction sites.

As a result, Japan has initiated a comprehensive search for potential buried munitions near two airports in the southern part of the country. This recent discovery underscores the persistent threat that these wartime relics still present.