While the East Coast is dealing with Hurricane Irene and her winds and rains, we're going to spend our weekend sweltering in SoCal. The National Weather Service has issued an excessive heat warning for Los Angeles County, as a large ridge of high pressure is gifting us with super high temperatures and high humidity to boot. more ›

It's very hot out. And it will continue to be throughout the weekend, so L.A. city officials this afternoon are pointing to places where the public can take a break and cool down indoors. They are encouraging people to take advantage of libraries, senior citizen centers, and recreation and parks facilities as cooling facilities. Additionally, seven San Fernando Valley Recreation and Parks and Senior Centers locations will be open on the weekend (full list below). For specifics information, people can call 3-1-1. more ›

Although the Station Fire's growth early last night seemed to be a sign of a slow down, the blaze, which killed two firefighters and has destroyed over 50 structures, grew some 15,000 acres as the hours progressed. The fire remains at 5 percent containment, but the weather is expected to cool down and moisture in the air is expected to return, which should aid firefighters, save for the worry of gusty wind and dry lightening strikes. This morning the focus of firefighting efforts remain in keeping flames away from homes, particularly in areas of La Crescenta, Tujunga, Sunland, and at Mount Wilson. Backfires set last night in Acton and La Crescenta are helping to keep the burn under control. Evacuation orders in more ›

Face it, it's hot. And with some people, especially the elderly, living without AC in poorly insulated homes, cooling centers can literally be a lifesaver. Three cooling centers in the Valley will remain open tonight until 8:00 p.m. tonight and will be open tomorrow from 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. There's also free water! The centers are located at parks in Canoga Park, Sunland and Northridge. [Via Mayor's Office Press Release] more ›