As a punishing heat wave swept through large parts of the United States on June 22, 2025, major sporting events across the country found themselves grappling with the challenge of maintaining safety under sweltering conditions. With temperatures surging into the 90s Fahrenheit in cities like Chicago, St. Louis, and Cromwell, Connecticut, sports organizers swiftly implemented expanded hydration and cooling strategies to protect both athletes and fans.
At Chicago’s Wrigley Field, where the Seattle Mariners faced off against the Chicago Cubs, game-time temperatures reached 92°F. The intense heat was part of a broader heat dome affecting much of the eastern half of the U.S., according to the National Weather Service. In response, the Cubs organization activated a series of protocols aimed at mitigating heat-related risks. These included providing covered cooling areas for spectators, making bottled water widely available, and issuing repeated announcements to encourage hydration.
Players, too, took extra precautions. Mariners pitcher Logan Gilbert utilized shaded tunnel areas with industrial fans between innings to cool down. Fellow teammate Donovan Solano emphasized maintaining electrolyte balance, adding salt to his water to combat fatigue. The Mariners went on to win the game 14–6, with multiple players contributing offensively despite the oppressive conditions.
Not everyone escaped unscathed. Mariners relief pitcher Trent Thornton and umpire Chad Whitson both experienced heat-related distress during the game. Both were quickly treated and recovered fully, underscoring the importance of on-site medical support during extreme weather events.
The heat wave also disrupted professional golf events, notably the Travelers Championship in Cromwell, Connecticut, and the KPMG Women’s PGA Championship in Texas. At the Travelers Championship, organizers set up hydration stations, shade tents, and mobile medical units staffed by Trinity Health. Spectators were advised to wear lightweight clothing, apply sunscreen, and remain in shaded areas. Similar precautions were observed at the Women’s PGA event, where temperatures hovered in the mid-90s, testing the endurance of both athletes and attendees.
One dramatic moment occurred during the Cincinnati Reds game in St. Louis, where infielder Elly De La Cruz became visibly ill during the fourth inning. After being treated and rehydrated, De La Cruz returned to the field and hit a two-run home run, a testament to the physical resilience required under such conditions.
These incidents come amid increasing concern about the frequency and intensity of heat waves in the United States. Climate scientists have noted that extreme heat events like the one in late June are becoming more common due to global warming. According to Climate Central, the recent heat wave was made at least three times more likely by human-induced climate change, and nearly half the U.S. population was affected.
The broader implications of this trend are pushing sports organizations to rethink how they prepare for and operate under extreme heat. Enhanced hydration efforts, shaded zones, public advisories, and robust medical readiness are likely to become standard components of event planning during summer months. Officials in various cities are also expanding cooling center access and issuing dynamic alerts to inform the public about heat risks.
For fans and athletes alike, the adaptations proved effective. While several heat-related health issues were reported, none resulted in long-term injury, highlighting the effectiveness of the emergency measures taken.
As climate change continues to shape weather patterns, event organizers face mounting pressure to prioritize public health while maintaining the integrity and enjoyment of sports. The June 22 events serve as a blueprint for proactive management in the face of environmental challenges—balancing tradition with new realities brought on by a warming planet.
