NEW YORK — Taylor Swift is donating $1 million to Louisiana flood relief after torrential rains caused massive flooding in the state and killed at least 11 people.

Swift told The Associated Press on Tuesday that Louisiana residents graciously welcomed her when she kicked off the U.S. dates of her “1989 World Tour” in the state last year.

“We began The 1989 World Tour in Louisiana, and the wonderful fans there made us feel completely at home. The fact that so many people in Louisiana have been forced out of their own homes this week is heartbreaking,” the 26-year-old said in a statement.

The flooding is some of the worst in Louisiana history, damaging at least 40,000 homes. More than 60,000 people have registered for disaster aid from the Federal Emergency Management Agency after widespread flooding hit the state, according to Louisiana Gov. John Bel Edwards’ office.

“I encourage those who can to help out and send your love and prayers their way during this devastating time,” Swift said.

DeGeneres defends herself:

LOS ANGELES — Ellen DeGeneres says she’s not racist after receiving backlash on social media for posting a Photoshopped image of herself riding on the back of Jamaican sprinter and Olympic gold medalist Usain Bolt.

The talk show host said Tuesday on Twitter that she’s “highly aware of the racism that exists in our country” but that’s “the furthest thing from who I am.”

DeGeneres posted the photo Monday with the caption: “This is how I’m running errands from now on.”

The image of a white woman riding a black man was criticized by many users on social media.