It looks like October in Fresno. Summer ended ten days ago but it doesn't feel like it.
Kevin Kopinski said, "Someone can tell mother nature any time...it's October now."
On hot days like Tuesday, city workers Kevin Kopinski and Thomas Correa take advantage of it. They use the sun and the work truck to warm up their food. "Cold from the refrigerator but by the time lunch time...it's nice and warm," Correa added.
We haven't hit triple digits this week but it's still hot. Combined with pollution, it's enough to warrant an air alert.
Janelle Schneider with The San Joaquin Valley Air Pollution Control District said, "we're in this episode because of the high temperatures and the emissions we're producing so it's the perfect scenario for an ozone exceedance."
An exceedance or violating federal standards costs the valley money. To avoid it, air officials are asking people to reduce driving and think about carpooling. "If we get through October with no exceedances then we are on our way to seeing this 29 million dollar penalty go away."
Robert MaGee at The Pumpkin King can't wait for the heat to go away. His pumpkins sit in the sun all day and it makes them soft and easier to break. "If they get dropped or bruised, which happens regularly with lots of children out."
Broken pumpkins take money out of his pocket so he's constantly searching for damage. "Once you start moving you start pouring the sweat," MaGee added.
It's tough work, especially on a hot day. But at least out here, it sort of feels like October.
As for the air alert. Other things you can do to help reduce emissions; avoid idling cars and using drive-thrus.
TXT 24
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