SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WAND) - The Illinois Department of Public Health is preparing to host a first-of-its-kind summit focused on how climate change and extreme weather events are already affecting public health—and how the state can better prepare for the challenges ahead.

The “Weather and Public Health Response Summit” will take place November 12–13, 2025 at the University of Illinois Chicago’s Student Center West. The two-day event will bring together health leaders, state agencies, clinicians, emergency managers, and climate experts from across Illinois.

IDPH Director Dr. Sameer Vohra says climate change is no longer a distant concern—it's a public health emergency that’s reshaping Illinois communities.

“Climate change is already reshaping the health of our communities,” Vohra said. “T

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