The US has said it was "closely monitoring" the situation at the Manchester Arena in the UK, where a terror attack claimed at least 19 lives, and working with other countries to obtain information about the incident.


"The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is closely monitoring the situation at Manchester Arena in the United Kingdom," an official statement here said.


"We are working with our foreign counterparts to obtain additional information about the cause of the reported explosion as well as the extent of injuries and fatalities," the DHS said.


A powerful blast ripped through the crowded arena hosting US star Ariana Grande's pop concert in Manchester, killing 19 people and injuring over 50 others, in one of the deadliest terror attacks in the UK.


The DHS said it stands ready to assist the UK in all ways necessary as the country investigates and recovers from the incident. The DHS also urged US citizens in the area to pay heed to the directions from the local authorities and maintain security awareness.


Image: A collage of people missing and then found, in the aftermath of the Manchester blast.