UPDATED: White House approves Francine emergency declaration

The White House has approved an emergency declaration for Louisiana related to Hurricane Francine, the Governor's Office announced Tuesday night.

"This federal assistance will be pivotal to save lives and property. As Hurricane Francine approaches Louisiana," Gov. Jeff Landry said in a press release. "I appreciate President Biden quickly approving this request."

Landry sent a letter to the president Tuesday asking for the declaration, effective Monday. The impact of torrential rainfall, damaging winds, and hurricane-spawn tornadoes will pose a serious threat to the lives and property of the people of Louisiana, the Governor's Office said.

“After declaring a State of Emergency, we have now determined that this storm is of such severity that an effective response is beyond the capabilities of the state and local governments. This federal assistance is needed to save lives and property, and I look forward to President Biden quickly approving this request,” Landry said in a press release.