Heat in Solitary: Oregon’s Prison Crisis | Seattle News

Oregon’s sweltering summer heat is exposing dangerous conditions in its prisons, especially for inmates in solitary confinement, where temperatures soar above 90 degrees without central air. Advocates are sounding the alarm as a lawsuit argues these conditions violate the state constitution’s ban on cruel and unusual punishment, highlighting how isolated inmates have far fewer ways to cope than those in general population. While the Department of Corrections points to fans, swamp coolers, and electrolyte drinks as measures — and claims some facilities like Snake River have AC — others like Oregon State and Coffee Creek rely on outdated systems. With climate change intensifying heat waves, advocates are demanding urgent, systemic improvements to protect vulnerable incarcerated people from life-threatening conditions. Listen in comfort:Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/facb44d402e1eb5b