The White House is underscoring President Obama's participation in Tropical Storm Isaac preparations, noting that he was briefed today by FEMA Administrator Craig Fugate and National Hurricane Center Director Rick Knabb.

The White House says Fugate gave Obama an update on FEMA, which has set up bases in Jacksonville, FL and Montgomery, AL and sent response teams to Alabama, Florida, Louisiana, and Mississippi. The White House says Obama told "Fugate to ensure that FEMA was prepared regardless of the ultimate strength and impact of the storm."

After the briefing, Obama spoke on a call with Alabama Gov. Robert Bentley, Louisiana Gov. Bobby Jindal, Miss. Governor Phil Bryant, and New Orleans Mayor Mitch Landrieu. 

"The President made clear that he has directed Administrator Fugate to make sure the governors have the resources they need as the storm approaches, and asked each overnor to identify additional needs if they arise," the White House said, adding that Obama told Jindal he'd approved his request for an emergency declaration for Louisiana ahead of the storm. Jindal earlier today tweeted that his request was "still pending."