Pope Benedict XVI today vowed to pray for victims of Hurricane Sandy, which has devastated parts of the Caribbean and the east coast of the US, and so far claimed more than 110 lives.

"Conscious of the devastation caused by the hurricane which recently struck the East Coast of the United States of America, I offer my prayers for the victims and express my solidarity with all those engaged in the work of rebuilding," said the Pope said at the end of his catechesis during today's general audience.

Catholic Charities USA said yesterday that it was providing help in partnership with other disaster relief organisations and state and local governments to provide immediate relief and shelter to all impacted individuals and families. It said it was also carrying out a major needs assessment before planning its longer response to the disaster.

Homepage: New Jersey residents are rescued from flood waters brought on by Hurricane Sandy. Above: In the Dominican Republic a man carries a child through floodwaters in a neighbourhood of Santo Domingo. Photos: CNS/Reuters