Taylor Swift has pledged a $1 million relief donation to Louisiana after the state was struck with devastating torrential rains, causing massive flooding that killed at least 11 people. “We began [2015’s] The 1989 World Tour in Louisiana, and the wonderful fans there made us feel completely at home,” the singer told the Associated Press.
“The fact that so many people in Louisiana have been forced out of their own homes this week is heartbreaking,” she continued. “I encourage those who can to help out and send your love and prayers their way during this devastating time.”
Louisiana has faced some of the worst flooding in its history. According to the National Weather Service (via NBC News), most of the state has received at least one foot of rain since Friday, with some areas facing up to 30 inches. An estimated 40,000 homes have been affected, with 30,000 people rescued.
“The current flooding in Louisiana is the worst natural disaster to strike the United States since Superstorm Sandy [in Oct. 2012]” said Brad Kieserman, the Red Cross’ vice president of disaster services, operations and logistics. He noted Tuesday that relief operations would cost at least $30 million but could “grow as [they] learn more about the scope and magnitude of the devastation.”
