Summer in California’s prisons isn’t just hot – it’s a life-threatening inferno that’s turning cell blocks into human saunas. With temperatures routinely skyrocketing to 95 degrees, inmates are fighting for survival in concrete ovens where relief is nothing more than a distant dream.

The Scorching Reality

In a state known for progressive policies, our prison system is shockingly failing to protect incarcerated individuals from extreme heat. Last year, at least one prison experienced 182 days of temperatures above 90 degrees – that’s basically half the year spent in sweltering conditions.

A Deadly Crisis

The tragic death of Adrienne Boulware at the Central California Women’s Facility highlights the brutal consequences of these conditions. Despite prison officials’ attempts to downplay her death, records suggest heat stroke played a significant role in her passing.

Slow-Moving Solutions

California’s proposed $38 million pilot program to test cooling systems sounds promising, but it’s a drop in the bucket. The plan will only address three prisons and won’t be fully evaluated until 2029 – leaving thousands of inmates to continue suffering in the meantime.

As climate change intensifies, these prison heat conditions aren’t just uncomfortable – they’re potentially fatal. Our system needs comprehensive, immediate action to protect human lives, regardless of their incarceration status.