City Honors Victims Of 1995 Heat Wave, Outlines Efforts To Avoid Future Climate Disasters

City officials commemorated the 30th anniversary of the tragic 1995 heat wave that resulted in 739 deaths, primarily among elderly and impoverished residents. Mayor Brandon Johnson addressed attendees at Columbus Park, emphasizing that climate crises must be approached with a focus on equity and access. Currently, only 30% of single-family homes in Chicago have central air conditioning, compared to a national average of 76%. To mitigate future disasters, city initiatives include expanding tree coverage, with more than 64,000 trees planted through the Our Roots Chicago program. The Defusing Disasters Working Group is also developing a Heat Vulnerability Index to help policymakers target areas at greatest risk of extreme heat.

Watson, a group member, shared her experience of losing her mother to heat illness, highlighting the infrastructural challenges many face in vulnerable neighborhoods. The city aims to provide long-term climate and health benefits through these efforts. The event also honored Emilio Aguirre, a World War II veteran who died during the heat wave.