Obama issues storm warning, says election 'will take care of itself'

US President Barack Obama warned on Monday that Hurricane Sandy was a powerful storm that could cause deaths, and said his concern for now was the safety of Americans and not next week's election.

He said it was vital that the people listen to their state and local officials and they should evacuate when told to do so.

During a televised White House appearance Obama said millions of people are going to be affected due to the hurricane.

"The election will take care of itself next week. Right now, our number one priority is to make sure that we are saving lives, that our search and rescue teams are going to be in place. That people are going to have the food, the water, the shelter that they need in case of emergency and that we respond as quickly as possible to get the economy back on track."