Cyclone Nargis shuts down Myanmar airport

Yangon: Myanmar's airport was forced to close on Saturday after a tropical cyclone slammed into the country's main city.

An official at Yangon International Airport said all incoming flights had been diverted to the second city of Mandalay, and all departures from Yangon had been cancelled.

Cyclone Nargis first started to lash Yangon on Friday evening, ripping off roofs and felling trees and power lines.

There were no reports of deaths, although meteorological officials said the cyclone could trigger a storm surge in coastal areas.

Buses and trains were not operating due to extensive flooding. Officials said it could be several day s before power, telecommunication and transport services are restored.