SAN DIEGO, CA - President Bush will cut short his vacation by two days and return to Washington on Wednesday to oversee federal relief efforts for Hurricane Katrina, the White House said Tuesday.

The president changed his plans to return to Washington on Friday following a Tuesday morning briefing on the damage caused by the devastating storm. President Bush intends to visit the stricken area, but hasn't decided when and where he will go, said White House spokesman Scott McClellan.

Bush promised the government's help for hurricane victims during a speech to Sailors and Marines at Naval Air Station North Island near San Diego. He also urged hurricane victims to follow instructions from local authorities working to restore order in storm-ravaged areas.

"Our hearts and prayers are with our fellow citizens along the Gulf Coast," President Bush said. "We know that many are anxious to return to their homes. It's not possible at this moment."

Following his speech at the naval base to commemorate the 60th anniversary of the Allied victory in World War II, the President will fly to his ranch in Crawford, Tx. before returning to Washington on Wednesday morning. Once there, he will then take part in an inner agency meeting to get hurricane updates and damage assessments from officials at the Federal Emergency Management Agency and others.

The President intends to visit the storm-stricken areas but hasn't decided when and where he will go. "We don’t want to do anything that would disrupt the ongoing response efforts," McClellan said. "This is one of the most devastating storms in our nation's history ... The destruction and loss of life is very sobering."

The president called on Americans help with relief efforts, by offering donations to the Red Cross 1-800-HELPNOW, or through the Red Cross Web site at https://www.redcross.org.