Obama set to visit flood-hit Louisiana amid criticism for not cutting holiday short

US President Barack Obama is making his first visit to flood-ravaged southern Louisiana today as he attempts to assure those who have suffered damage to their homes, schools and businesses that his administration has made their recovery a priority.

Mr Obama took some criticism by opting to complete his family's two-week vacation in Massachusetts before inspecting the flood damage personally and meeting with local residents in Baton Rouge.