It's just after 7 p.m. and hundreds of Sanger High School seniors prepared to receive their diplomas.
Meanwhile, loved ones were fanning themselves and reaching for refreshing treats as they baked in the 98° heat.
“They had snow cones here, so we're just trying to get cooled off here and sit in the grass to try and get some shade,” said Martha Zapata, grandmother of a graduate.
Around 4:30, the situation was much more serious near Manchester Mall. Fresno Police got word that a dog was locked inside of a car.
“The temperatures inside a car can be like an oven,” Sgt. Ron Grimm of the Fresno Police Dept.
After about 15 minutes, the owner came out and opened the vehicle. Fortunately, the dog was ok.
“The driver of the car who left the dog inside has been cited for misdemeanor animal cruelty,” said Sgt. Grimm.
In Old Town Clovis, folks filled the hot streets for the weekly Farmer’s Market.
“It's not pleasant, but it's fun to be out here. Definitely something to do on a Friday night,” said Hayden Souza, a visitor.
Laura Durbin said this weather is better than in her home state of Oklahoma.
“This is about maybe a third of the humidity or less. I would be drenched,” said Laura Durbin, a berry vendor.
But to accommodate the locals she had misters going at her berry stand.
“That's part of helping the people and patrons enjoy the experience,” said Durbin.
With the forecast calling for 107° Saturday, relatives are more and more thankful for the timing of this ceremony in Sanger.
“So glad we're here tonight and not tomorrow,” said Zapata.