The United Nations has offered help to mobilise international aid for the thousands of victims of cyclone Nargis which struck Myanmar.
The United Nations Disaster Assessment and Coordination team has been put on stand by to respond to the humanitarian needs if and when required.
The UN officials say it could take days before the extent of casualties and damage is known. The humanitarian agencies cannot go in without the permission of the government and hence they would have to seek the UN's help.
United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon said he is "deeply saddened" by the loss of life and destruction suffered by the people.
"He extends his deepest condolences to the families of those who have been killed, injured, or made homeless because of the storm," his spokesperson said.