Cyclone hits Myanmar

Cyclone Nargis hit Myanmar near the lower Irrawaddy Delta region on May 2-3, 2008, with winds of 120 to 150 mph, then traveled inland to Rangoon. The government declared disaster areas in five central and southern regions: Rangoon, Irrawaddy, Bago, Mon and Kayin.

In the delta region, the damage was widespread and many entire villages were destroyed. There were an estimated 78,000 deaths, 56,000 people missing and millions homeless.

Heavy damage was also reported in Rangoon, with telecommunications lines cut, buildings badly damaged, water supplies disrupted, fuel shortages and many roads made impassable from debri, flooding and damage. The risk of diseases such as cholera, malaria and dengue fever remains.

The Shwedagon Paya Buddhist temple complex in Rangoon was damaged as well. Several panels of gold leaf and precious stones (rubies, emeralds and sapphires) were dislodged from the roofs and walls.

Travelers are being urged defer nonessential travel to Myanmar at this time.