Every Friday, we post a “What We’re Watching” blog as we look ahead to the weekend. We encourage you to share it with your friends and family, and have a safe weekend.
Severe Weather Outlook
As we go into the weekend, severe drought conditions are expected to continue into next week in New Mexico, Texas, Oklahoma and parts of Louisiana and Arkansas. In other parts of the U.S., especially along the east coast, rain is expected throughout the weekend and into the beginning of next week. Many of these areas are already saturated from substantial rainfall this summer, so those along the eastern seaboard should closely monitor conditions in their area and listen to the direction of local officials.
To learn about the disaster risks in your area and learn how to get prepared, visit Ready.gov today.
Recovery Efforts In Full Swing 
Magnolia, TX, September 22, 2011 -- A FEMA Housing Inspector talks with a home owner whose home was destroyed when a wildfire raced through her community. FEMA is working with local, state and other federal and volunteer agencies to provide assistance to residents affected by fires.
In many areas around the county, emergency managers, voluntary and faith-based organizations, the private sector, and concerned citizens are helping their communities recover from recent disasters. As part of that team, we’re actively supporting our federal, state and local partners in providing assistance to the affected individuals and communities.
Below are a few news stories highlighting our efforts in the past week:
Opening disaster recovery centers
FEMA opens fire recovery center in Leander
Austin-American Statesman (Texas)
FEMA disaster recovery center opens
Daily Item (Sunbury, Penn.)
400 seek assistance at disaster recovery center in Bradford county
The Daily Review (Towanda, Penn.)
Recovery Center Opens in Ludlow
Rutland Herald (Ludlow, Vt.)
FEMA disaster recovery center opens in Manning Township
NJ.com (New Jersey)
FEMA opens disaster recovery centers in Broome, Tioga
Stargazette.com – New York
Continuing to reach out to disaster survivors through community relations teams
FEMA teams determine where storm-relief needs are
Poughkeepsie Journal (New York)
Officials: Register with FEMA
Yankton Daily Press & Dakotan (South Dakota)
Encouraging Emergency Preparedness in Alabama
As we enter the last week of National Preparedness Month, we wanted to share a video of outreach being done in Alabama to encourage emergency preparedness. Throughout the month, federal, state, and local partners are hosting “Be Ready Alabama” events in communities across the state, providing information on getting prepared before a disaster strikes.
There’s still time to host a National Preparedness Month event in your workplace, neighborhood or town.And even though September is recognized as National Preparedness Month, it’s not the only month when you can share the importance of getting prepared before a disaster strikes. Visit Ready.gov today to learn how you can get your family and property prepared, and share it with a family member or friend.