WASHINGTON - U.S. President Barack Obama on Monday called Arizona Governor Jan Brewer to receive an update on the Yarnell Hill fire that's raging in the state, offering federal help, the White House said.

According to a White House statement, Obama expressed his condolences to the families of the 19 firefighters, who died combatting the fire Sunday, and all whose lives have been impacted by this tragedy.

Obama reiterated his commitment to providing the necessary federal support to the state and local efforts. The administration will continue to keep in constant contact with the local officials and coordinate with federal partners, said the statement.

The Yarnell Hill fire started Friday afternoon, ripping through half of the town of Yarnell Hill. Hundreds took part in responding to the fire. Assets deployed to support and assist the ongoing effort included airtankers, engines and helicopters. A National Wildland Fire Type 1 Incident Management Team has also been deployed to assist with the response.