Why did so many people die in the recent cyclone in Myanmar?

Question

Why did so many people die in the recent cyclone in Myanmar?

Answer 1

The vast majority of the deaths can be attributed to the people simply not knowing that the Cyclone was coming.  The coastal areas have hundreds of thousands of people in total poverty, having no form of communication such as radios or TV.  And their huts made of cardboard, leaves, or whatever weak material was obviously no protection from the storm surge.  By the time they realized what was happening, it was likely too late to escape.

Answer 2

Did you read the news? A big cyclone!!! You'll be KIA if you don't take shelter period. Cyclone ain't no joke.... there are also diseases, riots, and who knows.

Answer 3

Most of the damage was done by a 12-foot storm surge (similar to a tsunami) that washed over most of the area, as opposed to simply strong winds and rain.