Cyclone knocks out electricity in much of Yangon
AP
Posted: 2008-05-03 00:20:21
YANGON, Myanmar (AP) – A Myanmar official says a tropical cyclone packing winds of up to 120 miles per hour caused heavy damage in Yangon.

Officials say the cyclone’s high winds tore off roofs and knocked out electricity in much of the country’s commercial capital.

The official from the country’s Meteorology Department, who spoke anonymously because he is not authorized to speak to the press, says he expects deaths and injuries from Saturday’s storm. He could not immediately provide any figures.

In a special announcement broadcast several times Friday afternoon, the meteorological bureau said tropical cyclone Nargis, originating in the Bay of Bengal, could hit the coast near Yangon, the country’s biggest city.