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Myanmar cyclone leaves at least 27 dead

27 October 2010 04:48 (UTC +04:00)

Baku-APA. At least 27 people have been killed and 15 are reportedly missing in Myanmar as a result of Tropical Cyclone Giri which generated wind speeds of up to 155 mph, APA reports quoting Press TV.

The cyclone struck Myanmar’s west coast near the town of Kyaukphyu and has forced thousands of people from their homes. More than 3,800 buildings and houses were damaged while about 20 schools were also destroyed, reported AFP.

There was no official announcement from the military government on damage or casualties. But there have been reports by local residents that the number of casualties may be as high as 84.

The military government tightly controls information, and in 2008 it also delayed reporting on one of the country’s worst ever cyclones that killed 130,000 people. The government was widely criticized for what were called inadequate preparations and a slow response to that disaster.

There has so far been little done by the military government in Myanmar to help victims and the government refuses to accept offers of assistance from the United Nations.

There have been local reports of up to 4,000 people seeking refuge at local shelters run by monks and other citizens.

Three camps have also been set up by the Myanmar Red Cross and the Social Welfare Ministry, which are currently housing more than 5,000 people, said Andrew Kirkwood, the resident representative of the aid group Save the Children.