Chicago Heat Wave of 1995 | Educating with Evidence | SIU

Who or What Was Responsible for Over 700 Deaths in Chicago?

The 1995 Chicago Heat Wave was one of the most devastating climate events in the city’s history, highlighting the perilous intersection of extreme temperatures and urban vulnerability. Beginning in late July, a severe heat wave gripped the Midwest, pushing temperatures into the high 90s and beyond, compounded by stifling humidity. Over the course of several days, Chicagoans faced oppressive conditions that led to a widespread health crises. 

Your Task: Use the groups of sources provided below to investigate the event’s historical context, impact, and the factors contributing to its severity. These sources reveal key differences between the 1995 and 1999 heat waves, the effectiveness of public health responses, and the implications of weather forecasting. Each group of sources includes 2 newspaper articles, 1 science journal article, 1 political cartoon, and 2 graphics. Use the graphic organizer to document and compare how the sources reveal who or what was to blame for this tragedy. 

Finally, two key concepts are critical to understanding this climate event: urban heat island effect and humidity. Use the vocabulary introduction to become more familiar with these terms and how they are related to this tragedy.

Complete these tasks to help you answer the central question: Who or what was responsible for over 700 deaths in Chicago?