Pilgrims Evacuated After Bomb Threat at Lourdes

Authorities at the French pilgrimage site at Lourdes say some 30,000 people have been evacuated after a bomb threat on the Catholic holy day of Assumption.

Sanctuary spokesman Pierre Adias says Lourdes police received a threat saying a bomb would hit the site Sunday afternoon.

Some 30,000 people were evacuated from the site just before the midday Mass, and explosives experts are scouring the area.

The Aug. 15 holiday sees a particularly large influx of pilgrims at Lourdes, reputed for its healing powers. Many pilgrims are sick or disabled.

Assumption marks the heavenly assumption of the Virgin Mary.