Obama to survey mudslide devastation

President Obama will travel to Washington state later this month to survey devastation from a mudslide that killed at least 33 people in March.

{mosads}The president will meet with families of the victims, as well as first responders and recovery workers, White House spokesman Keith Maley said. The trip is scheduled for April 22.

Another dozen people are still missing after the massive mudslide engulfed homes on the outskirts of Oso, Wash. late last month. Flash floods and storms have hindered the recovery efforts.

The president signed an emergence declaration authorizing federal assistance to Washington while traveling in the Netherlands last month.

During a press conference there, Obama asked for “Americans to send their thoughts and prayers to Washington state and the community of Oso, and the families and friends of those who continue to be missing.”

He also heralded first responders, who had “acted bravely, despite still-dangerous conditions.”