Cyclone Hits Burma’s Largest City of Rangoon

Officials in Burma say a tropical cyclone hit the main city of Rangoon Saturday, tearing off roofs and knocking out electricity to much of the city.

There have been no reports of deaths or injuries, but forecasters have warned of a tidal surge of more than three meters.

Tropical cyclone Nargis, with winds of up to 190 kilometers per hour, knocked state-run radio off the air. Internet service also went out in Burma’s largest city.

Officials say the storm shut down the city’s International Airport.

It was not immediately known whether storm damage would affect a referendum on May 10 on a new constitution, which the ruling military says will pave the way for democratic elections in 2010.

Some information for this report was provided by AFP, AP and Reuters.

by VOA News

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