In July 1980, a devastating heat wave swept through Missouri, causing nearly 400 deaths statewide. St. Louis was especially hard hit, losing 153 residents. The heat wave turned into a healthcare emergency, pushing hospitals and city systems to their limit. The U.S. military had to step in to help out.

During this time, many St. Louis homes lacked good insulation and air conditioning, leading to a high death count notably among low-income seniors and people with physical disabilities. This serious 18-day heat wave where temperatures never fell below 100 degrees underscored the city’s vulnerabilities and highlighted the pressing need for improved cooling methods.

Lessons Learned and Actions Taken

The severe 1980 heat wave served as a wakeup call for change. Property buyers started considering houses with modern air conditioning while city officials took swift action. Governor Teasdale declared an emergency situation and sent out the National Guard to give out fans and air conditioners. The widespread media coverage of the disaster brought it onto the national radar and resulted in major changes in public health policies.

Changes in Policy and Community Projects

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) decided to officially record heat related deaths after this event took place. St Louis also ensured more than 70 cooling shelters were opened around the city and installed air conditioning on Metro buses following threats from locals of not paying fares without such services being provided. These steps pointed towards how well-planned immediate responses can reduce effects from harsh weather conditions.

Gentry Trotter Launches Cool Down St Louis

Inspired by the events of the deadly 1980 heat wave, Gentry Trotter created Cool Down St Louis program. This effort has played a key role over the last 25 years in helping local residents afford air conditioning. Every year, Cool Down St Louis organizes events to give out air conditioners and smart thermostats to seniors, people with disabilities, and those on low incomes.

A Look Back at the 1936 Heat Wave

The 1936 heat wave is another case of deadly high temperatures reaching 100 degrees in Illinois and as much as 120 degrees in North Dakota, causing around 5,000 lives lost. In New York City Central Park reached an alarming high of 106 degrees leading locals to find relief wherever they could even sleep on roofs and fire escape ladders. The Dust Bowl worsened this heat wave’s impact during one of the most punishing times in U.S history.

The Relationship Between Modern Heat Waves and Climate Change

The U.S has been dealing with prolonged more frequent heat waves in recent years due largely to climate change. Take for example Phoenix where temperatures hit at least 110 degrees for over a month straight in 2023 resulting in a shocking number of deaths (404) only within Maricopa County. This trend speaks volumes about our planet’s rising temperatures making extreme heat occurrences like this much more usual and intense,

Wakeup Call from Recent Heat Waves

The summer of 2023 presented Southwest with an intense heat wave breaking records especially in Phoenix. Even Northeast and Midwest regions felt early season temperature rises hitting record highs like Chicago recording temperatures up to a scary 97 degrees while New York’s forecast got as hot as 96 degrees. These experiences continue to stress the growing frequency and severity of these events even in locations not historically used to such extremes.

Effects on Urban Areas & At-risk Population Groups

Extreme temperatures disproportionately affect cities and vulnerable groups. A strong 1995 heat wave in Chicago claimed 739 lives majorly among older people living alone. This event stressed the need to take into account social economic factors when identifying those at higher risk during such catastrophes. In a similar vein, Portland Oregon in 2021 faced an awful heat wave leaving 69 people dead primarily because they had no air conditioning.

Learnings From Past Mistakes for Future Preparedness

The history of U.S heat waves has shown repeating struggles and adapting responses. Cities like St Louis and Portland have gained from past challenges by applying better cooling technologies and community support systems. However, with global warming driving even more severe weather, further improvements remain essential to be well prepared.

Practical Suggestions for Enduring Heat Waves

• Hydrate Regularly, make sure you drink water all through the day.
• Dress Sensibly, choose light, loose-fitting clothes.
• Avoid Sun Exposure, try staying indoors especially during peak sunlight hours.
• Check on Vulnerable People, confirm that the elderly and disabled individuals are not overheating.
• Utilize Cooling Centers, maximize available community resources like cooling centers.

Community Testing and Government Policies

Efforts from communities like Cool Down St Louis combined with government policies are crucial in reducing negative impacts of heatwave. Distributions of air conditioning units along with emergency services during extreme heat can literally save lives

Conclusion

The dangerous consequences of prolonged extreme heat seen in 1980, 1936 as well as recent times stress the ongoing threat we face against rising temperatures. With climate change paving way for increased temperatures worldwide, communities need to remain alert and active in their responses. Best policy is to learn from past mistakes while putting effective strategies in motion to provide protection for the most at risk, resulting in a more secure future.