WASHINGTON >> President Barack Obama says he and his wife, Michelle, are “deeply saddened” by the deaths and damage caused by Typhoon Haiyan  in the Philippines this weekend.

Obama says the United States is providing “significant” humanitarian assistance and is prepared to further assist relief and recovery efforts.

Haiyan struck the eastern seaboard of the Philippines on Friday and quickly barreled across its central islands, packing winds that gusted up to 170 miles per hour. The death toll has climbed into the thousands, and about 4 million people were affected by the storm.

“I know the incredible resiliency of the Philippine people, and I am confident that the spirit of Bayanihan will see you through this tragedy,” the president said in a statement. “Our thoughts and prayers go out to the millions of people affected by this devastating storm.”