Obama sends condolences to tornado victims, says ‘your country will be there to help’

Tornado damage in River Plantation neighborhood in Mayflower, Arkansas. Posted to Twitter by Forbidden Hillcrest.

MANILA, Philippines – President Barack Obama is sending his deepest condolences to those affected by a deadly tornado that ripped through Arkansas.

Obama says he wants everyone affected to know that the federal government is on the ground to help. He says the Federal Emergency Management Agency will work with local officials.

Obama says, quote, “Your country will be there to help you recover and rebuild, as long as it takes.”

The president is also praising the heroic efforts of first responders and neighbours.

A broad tornado killed at least 11 when it sliced through suburbs in Arkansas on Sunday at the start of the U.S. tornado season. Another person died in Oklahoma.

Obama spoke at a joint news conference with Philippine President Benigno Aquino while travelling in Asia.