Louisiana Gov. Jeff Landry seeks federal disaster help for Shreveport region after Beryl

Gov. Jeff Landry has asked President Biden for an emergency disaster declaration to unlock federal recovery funding for the Shreveport region and northwestern Louisiana, where tornadoes triggered by Hurricane Beryl caused massive damage and one death.

Landry has already consulted with Federal Emergency Management Agency Administrator Deanne Criswell.

The governor has also issued a state-declared emergency.

“We want to ensure we seek all levels of support for the parishes that continue to recover from this devastating tornado outbreak," Landry said in a statement. "I had a great conversation with Administrator Criswell and we are optimistic President Biden and FEMA will approve our request.

"Several parishes face major costs for cleanup and work associated with the storm. This disaster declaration would help offset much of those costs. Our office will continue to work with our local, state and federal partners to ensure those hard-hit parishes are able to have a full recovery.”

The disaster declaration request includes two different FEMA categories to cover local governments and affected individuals:

∎ FEMA Category A for debris removal: That allows parishes to be reimbursed for removing debris or allows the parishes to be supported directly with that work.

∎ Category B is for emergency protective measures: That covers any potential sheltering or evacuation costs. It also allows federal resources to be used for lifesaving or life-sustaining work.

The storm advanced from Texas into western Louisiana throughout the day on Monday, with the outer connective bands from the tropical storm causing one fatality, major damage to homes and businesses and massive power outages.

A 31-year-old Benton woman died after a tree fell on her home during the storm.

Shreveport's National Weather Service Office issued 65 tornado warnings during the storm, with preliminary data showing at least five tornadoes touching ground.

More:Gov. Jeff Landry issues Shreveport-area emergency after Beryl storm death, massive damage

Greg Hilburn covers state politics for the USA TODAY Network of Louisiana. Follow him on Twitter @GregHilburn1