This regional gathering brought together partners for the first time under the newly established Southeast Drought Early Warning System (DEWS) network to share and discuss ongoing drought-related activities, learn about new and innovative drought research and resources, explore emerging issues and opportunities, and identify collaborative paths forward that advance drought early warning and preparedness in this region. Specific topics included:

• Sharing state and watershed approaches for drought planning and response
• Promoting effective practices for communicating current and future drought conditions 
• Improving our ability to monitor, predict, and respond to rapid-onset (‘flash’) droughts
• Utilizing information on drought impacts to inform drought monitoring and decision making

The goal was for participants to leave with tangible lessons on how to enhance existing activities, design and implement new efforts, and address barriers related to drought planning and preparedness. In addition, partners jointly identified collaborative research and opportunities that the partners and the broader DEWS network can utilize to address drought across the region.

Who should attend: This Dialogue was open to all, and is particularly relevant to those entities that engage in the following activities:

• Monitor drought conditions
• Engage in drought and water planning 
• Utilize drought information in decision making 
• Provide information on drought conditions and impacts
• Conduct research related to drought monitoring, prediction, and risk
• Share drought information through communication and outreach.

For more information, read the meeting summary or reach out to Meredith Muth.