Iowa Prisons Overheat: Inmates Struggle in Deadly Heat

Climate change is exacerbating heatwaves in Iowa, leading to dangerous conditions for incarcerated individuals. At Anamosa State Penitentiary, inmates have reported cell temperatures reaching 80 degrees Fahrenheit or higher during summer nights. This past July 15, Robert Buel, 57, died at the facility during a period of intense heat. While officially attributed to chronic heart disease, his sister suspects the absence of air conditioning was a contributing factor.

The Iowa Department of Corrections has repeatedly sought legislative funding for air conditioning at Anamosa and Mount Pleasant Correctional Facilities over the past 15 years. However, these requests have gone unfunded, with the legislature prioritizing other infrastructure projects. This inaction leaves over 1,000 men in each facility vulnerable to extreme heat, which can worsen existing health conditions and pose significant risks, especially to the cardiovascular system.

Inmate Shawn Crowley of Cedar Rapids, who has a history of heart problems, described the difficulty breathing in the hot, humid conditions. He reported experiencing chest pains, diagnosed as pericarditis, and fears the heat's toll on his heart. Crowley stated that the high temperatures severely limit his ability to exercise, forcing him to focus on avoiding overheating. The lack of climate control in a significant portion of cells at Anamosa exacerbates these health concerns.

Heat-related deaths are a growing concern nationally. From 2018 to 2025, an estimated 1,700 people died annually from heat-related causes, with some analyses suggesting the true number could be as high as 9,000. Experts note that heat puts a strain on the body, particularly the heart, and can worsen chronic illnesses. The subtle nature of heat's impact means it is often not recorded as a primary cause of death.