As Debby closed in on Florida, President Barack Obama said he is prepared to assist the state as needed.

Aboard Air Force One Tuesday, the president called Gov. Rick Scott to ensure him Florida will have "no unmet needs" as the state continues to respond to severe weather and flooding.

Scott declared a state of emergency Monday as a tropical storm warning was issued for Florida's Gulf Coast.

Obama expressed his condolences to Floridians for loss of lives and extensive damage across the state, and told Gov. Scott his thoughts and prayers were with the citizens of Florida, as well as with emergency responders.

One person was killed in Highlands County after a tornado reportedly touched down early Monday. Debby has been blamed for at least seven tornadoes since it formed Friday.

Obama said he would remain in close contact with the state through the Federal Emergency Management Agency, and will stand ready to provide additional assistance if necessary.

At the state's request, a FEMA representative has been sent to the state Emergency Operations Center to support response efforts as needed.