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20:45 GMT
WASHINGTON, March 17 (KUNA) -- The United States is bringing all available resources to bear to closely monitor the nuclear disaster in Japan, and protect American citizens who may be in harm's way, President Barack Obama said on Thursday.
"Even as Japanese responders continue to do heroic work, we know that the damage to the nuclear reactors in Fukushima Daiichi plant poses a substantial risk to people who are nearby," Obama said in an appearance in the White House Rose Garden. "That is why yesterday we called for an evacuation of American citizens who are within 50 miles of the plant." That decision was based on a careful scientific evaluation and guidelines used in the United States, he said.
"Beyond this 50-mile radius, the risks do not currently call for an evacuation," Obama said. "But we do have a responsibility to take prudent and precautionary measures to educate those Americans who may be endangered by exposure to radiation if the situation deteriorates.That is why last night I authorized the voluntary departures of family members and dependents of US officials working in northeastern Japan".
All US citizens in Japan should continue to carefully monitor the situation and follow the guidance of the US and Japanese governments, he said. Those seeking assistance should contact the US embassy and consulates, which continue to be open and operational, he added.
"We do not expect harmful levels of radiation to reach the West Coast, Hawaii, Alaska or US territories in the Pacific," the President said. "That is the judgment of our Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) and many other experts".
Furthermore, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and public health experts do not recommend that people in the United States take precautionary measures beyond staying informed,he said.
Obama said he had asked the NRC to do a comprehensive review of the safety of US domestic nuclear plants in light of the natural disaster that unfolded in Japan.
"Finally, we are working aggressively to support our Japanese ally at this time of extraordinary challenge," he said. "Search and rescue teams are on the ground in Japan to help the recovery effort. A disaster assistance and response team is working to confront the aftermath of the earthquake and tsunami".
The US military, which has helped to ensure the security of Japan for decades, is working around the clock, Obama said.
To date, US forces have flown hundreds of missions to support the recovery efforts and distributed thousands of pounds of food and water to the Japanese people, he said.
"We have also deployed some of our leading experts to help contain the damage at Japan's nuclear reactors," he said. "We are sharing with them expertise, equipment and technology so that the courageous responders on the scene have the benefit of American teamwork and support".
Earlier in the day, Obama visited the Japan Embassy, in an unannounced trip, and signed a condolence book.
In the book, he wrote: "My heart goes out to the people of Japan during this enormous tragedy. Please know that America will always stand by one of its greatest allies during this time of need. Because of the strength and wisdom of its people, we know that Japan will recover, and indeed will emerge stronger than ever. And as it recovers, the memory of those who have been lost will remain in our hearts, and will serve only to strengthen the relationship between our two countries. May God bless the people of Japan".
Obama said his embassy visit was to communicate how "heartbroken" America was over the tragedy.
"We are doing everything we can to stand by our great friend and ally, Japan, in this hour of need," he said. He offered sympathy for lives lost and those displaced.
The President said he was "confident" Japan will rebuild, praising its "strong" and "dedicated" people.
Ambassador of Japan Ichiro Fujisaki said, "We are so grateful to the President and the people of the United States". (pickup previous) rm.bs KUNA 172345 Mar 11NNNN