Obama: Storm Damage in Southeast 'Catastrophic'

President Barack Obama says the damage in tornado-stricken states in the Southeast is "nothing short of catastrophic."

Speaking at the White House, Obama says the loss of life has been heartbreaking, especially in Alabama, the state hit hardest. At least 250 people have been killed in six states in the deadliest tornado outbreak in 40 years.

Obama says the federal government will do everything it can to help the states recover and rebuild. He said the first responders who have been helping those in the region are heroes.

Obama will travel to Alabama Friday to view the damage and meet families devastated by the storms. He'll also meet with Alabama Gov. Robert Bentley.