Thousands of people have spent a second night away from their homes after a WWII bomb was uncovered by builders.
The bomb was found near the University of Exeter campus.
More than 1,400 students were asked to leave the site.
And 2,600 properties were evacuated.
The bomb was on private land.
An exclusion zone of 400 metres was thrown around the area.
A Royal Navy bomb disposal team was brought in make the device safe.
A police spokesman said:
“The 400-metre cordon will remain until further notice, so residents should not return home this evening.
“Devon County Council and Exeter Council have been working to support evacuated residents.
“Around 400-tonnes of sand was transported to the site of the device, which is at a building site on private land, and walls were erected, initially by the Royal Navy bomb disposal experts, followed by Army personnel from the Royal Logistics Corps, to mitigate the impact of the detonation.
“Trenches were also dug to prevent ground shock.
“Despite these mitigation measures, the impact of the blast has been significant, and debris has been thrown at least 250-metres away.
“The crater is around the size of a double decker bus.
“People can be reassured that there are no concerns regarding the impact of the explosion, which caused a large plume of sand, on public health.
“Safety assessments are being conducted this evening and utility companies, including gas, electric and water, are also carrying out assessments.”
Covid-19 regulations were lifted as people sought refuge with family and friends.
Video: Exeter Council YouTube
