1. Air raid sirens: The sound of air raid sirens was a common occurrence during the war. They alerted people to the approach of enemy aircraft and the risk of bombings. Anne and the others in the annex would hear these sirens and worry about the safety of their families and friends outside.
2. Sounds of bombings and gunfire: The diary mentions the distant sounds of bombings and gunfire, which intensified during periods of heavy fighting. These sounds were a stark reminder of the violence and destruction happening in the city outside.
3. News of arrests and deportations: Anne and the others would sometimes receive news about the arrest or deportation of people they knew. This constant fear of being discovered or taken away added to their anxiety and kept them awake.
4. The presence of soldiers: The sight of German soldiers patrolling the streets or searching houses was a reminder of the occupying force and the danger of being caught. Anne writes about seeing soldiers from the window of the annex and feeling both fear and anger towards them.
5. Uncertainty about the future: Living in hiding meant that Anne and the others had very limited information about the war's progress and the chances of liberation. This uncertainty about what the future held added to the stress and anxiety they felt at night.
These constant reminders of the war outside kept Anne and the others in a state of fear, anxiety, and insomnia. Despite their efforts to maintain hope and normalcy within the annex, the reality of the war and the risks they faced were ever-present.