Oklahoma tornado: 37 dead as Obama lends support

US President Barack Obama has called Oklahoma Governor Mary Fallin to express his concern about a monstrous tornado that killed 37 people and wreaked havoc in the Oklahoma City suburbs.

The tornadoes caused havoc in Oklahoma. Picture: AP

The White House said Mr Obama told the governor that he has directed the government and the Federal Emergency Management Agency to provide any assistance she needs. FEMA has sent a special team to Oklahoma’s emergency operations centre to help out and dispatch resources.

Mr Obama also told Ms Fallin to contact him directly if the federal government can provide additional help.

The White House says Mr Obama’s homeland security team is keeping him updated on the situation.

The tornado flattened entire neighborhoods in the southern suburb of Moore with winds up to 200 mph (320 kph), leaving buildings on fire and landing a direct blow to an elementary school.