Heat wave causes some popular Valley events to shut down

FRESNO, Calif. (KFSN) -- The days leading up to the Summer Solstice aren't just the longest of the year-- they are also shaping up to be some of the hottest.

"You just have to endure it," said Don Vang of 15 Tea.

For people looking to stay cool outside the options are limited at the River Park Farmer's Market.

"About 7:30-- that's when they come out, so that's when we get busy," said Vang.

Vendors have turned to churning out cold, refreshing treats.

"Today we feel like not coming, but everyone needs their drinks," said Vang.

But not everyone can power through this heat wave. From Hanford to Fresno, several long-time annual events were canceled for the first time. Fig Gig-- which benefits the Valley Animal Center this year-- called off the popular fundraiser because of the forecast.

"Due to the 111 degree's that it's supposed to be on Thursday, it's just not healthy or safe for people and especially dogs to be out in that of environment," said Devon Prendergast, Valley Animal Center.

Volunteers have been tracking the temperature for weeks, but they only made the decision Tuesday after testing the asphalt and it was more than 130 degrees.

"A lot of those things that we use on a day to day basis to care for our animals and make sure our facility stays very clean and sanitized is what we probably would have put that donation towards," said Prendergast.

But crucial as the money is organizers said it comes second to people's health-- especially with the hottest temperatures yet to come.

Volunteers said they are still in need of donations from the public and that they hope to partner again with Fig Garden in the future.