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Damage from Bangladesh Cyclone Much Worse Than First Thought

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The United Nations says the devastation caused in Bangladesh by Cyclone Sidr last month is far worse than previously thought.

The U.N. Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs says nearly 2.6 million Bangladeshis across nine districts still need emergency assistance.

The total number of people affected by the cyclone was about 8.5 million, 1.5 million more than initially thought.

The U.N. says property damage is also more severe than first reported. Nearly 564,000 homes were destroyed, up from initial estimates of 200,000.

The confirmed death toll from the cyclone is 3,268.

The U.N. says food, shelter and cash are needed the most in terms of emergency aid. Proper sanitation and clean water are also high priorities.

The November 15 cyclone was the worst in Bangladesh in more than a decade. It struck the coast with fierce winds and a tidal surge that wiped out villages.

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

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