October Sizzle, Pull Out the Flip Flops

Apparently pulling those comfy boots and knit sweaters out of the closet last week was a bit premature as Southland temperatures are expected to reach the high 90s today and climb even higher tomorrow.

Temperatures in Cerritos and Artesia are expected to range between the upper 80s and upper 90s through Friday -- part of a mini heat wave rolling over Southern California as a result of an unusually strong upper-level high-pressure system combined with warm, Santa Ana winds, according to National Weather Service meteorologists.

"Residents not used to this heat should be extra cautious with outdoor
activities and check on those without air conditioning,'' according to an NWS
advisory.

A cooling trend will get under way Friday. 

The resurgence of sweltering heat has triggered a sharp warning from the Los
Angeles County Department of Animal Care and Control, which urged area
residents never to leave pets inside a vehicle, even if parked in the shade or
with the windows cracked open.

To learn more about keeping your pets out of harm's way during the heat wave, .

- City News Service contributed to this report.