Obama Urges Americans To Follow Local Governments Amid Tsunami Threat

President Barack Obama urged Americans Saturday to follow the instructions of state and local governments in light of severe weather threats surrounding the 8.8 magnitude quake that hit Chile earlier in the day.

"The most important thing you can do is to carefully heed the instructions of your state and local officials," Obama said.

The President noted that areas off the coast have been alerted to prepare for possible evacuations and advised states on the West Coast to practice similar caution.

According to Obama, the death toll in Chile following the quake is in the hundreds.

“Early indications are that hundreds of lives have been lost and the damage is severe.”

Obama’s remarks came shortly after Press Secretary Robert Gibbs gave a statement affirming U.S. support for Chile.

“We are closely monitoring the situation, including the potential for a tsunami,” Gibbs said. “Our thoughts and prayers are with the people of Chile and we stand ready to help in this hour of need."