9/16/2023 0 Comments Weather chicago illinois![]() ![]() The 1995 heat wave demonstrated that neighbors and local organizations are often the first line of response in weather disasters. Yet, in the era of human-caused climate change, preparedness must be continually re-evaluated and refined. Known as the Defusing Disasters Working Group (DDWG) and supported by Northwestern University’s Buffett Institute for Global Affairs, this collaborative aims to provide the city with tools ensuring the increased frequency of extreme weather events that we have come to expect does not translate to an increased frequency of extreme weather disasters. To achieve this, the city spearheaded a novel partnership among community groups, government, health care and research institutions. The city also launched Our Roots Chicago, which empowers communities to plant trees in the neighborhoods that need them most.Īdditionally, Chicago’s 2022 Climate Action Plan outlined heat management initiatives and set a goal to develop its first heat vulnerability index - a tool to identify those most susceptible to extreme heat in order to focus on life-saving adaptations. Since the tragic heat wave of 1995, the city has taken several steps to protect vulnerable populations, such as implementing personal wellness checks, initiating special training for first responders and expanding cooling centers. ![]() Getting connected to avert heat disastersīuilding resilience to extreme heat in Chicago relies on policies and resources that foster strong support networks and cooling strategies. The good news is being aware and staying hydrated, cool and connected can prevent nearly all heat-related illnesses. It’s also a good idea to check on seniors during hot days - particularly if they live alone. Our unhoused neighbors and those who work outdoors or under heat-trapping protective equipment, like firefighters or utility workers, are particularly vulnerable. Pregnant women, infants and people with chronic illness or who take certain medications face greater risk because of the way these conditions modify temperature regulation. In more severe cases, overheating can lead to shock, organ failure and even death.Ĭertain groups of people are more susceptible to heat-related illness. Moderate symptoms like lightheadedness and vomiting are signs to seek medical attention. ![]() Milder symptoms include rashes and cramps. Extreme heat taxes our bodies and manifests in ways that are easy to overlook but important to recognize. ![]()
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