Numerous published studies regarding weather and crime have yielded similar results: as temperatures increase in the summer months, there is a direct correlation with the increase in crime. Differences in the type of increased crime can vary across the country. For instance, FBI data shows an increase up to 10% in criminal activity overall in summer months, while murders and assaults specifically have seen a national increase up to 3% in some years. Other studies show the biggest segment increase coming from non-aggravated assaults (those without weapons), like domestic violence. The reason is simple: more people interact due to an increase in social activities and time spent outdoors in hotter months, thus increasing the opportunity for crime to occur (this is also referred to as the "Routine Activities Theory"). The type of crime that occurs during these months varies from region to region, but property and auto theft show a consistent increase across the nation. Juvenile crime is also a consistent segment that shows increase in summer months, due to school not being in session.
Heat is also shown to increase heart rate and aggression, thus making seemingly trivial interactions between strangers lead to violence. Fights often break out as a result of these physiological effects that might otherwise be quelled in cooler months. Interestingly, however, there are arguments that in certain regions once temperatures increase above 85 degrees, the spike in crime rates begins to level out, making it plausible that sometimes, it’s just too hot, even for crime.
The correlation between data and crime in the summer months can be complex and does not give a clear picture of cause and effect. Georgia, however, is taking precautionary measures and implementing a Summer Safety Initiative. Under the direction of Police Chief George N. Turner, the Atlanta Police Department will implement precautionary initiatives like increased patrols across all units (foot, mounted, etc.); dedicated safety zones during special events; routine traffic stops; and youth prevention programs.
Sources: Julia Dahl, CBS News; Hunt Archibold, Midtown.patch.com
Heat is also shown to increase heart rate and aggression, thus making seemingly trivial interactions between strangers lead to violence. Fights often break out as a result of these physiological effects that might otherwise be quelled in cooler months. Interestingly, however, there are arguments that in certain regions once temperatures increase above 85 degrees, the spike in crime rates begins to level out, making it plausible that sometimes, it’s just too hot, even for crime.
The correlation between data and crime in the summer months can be complex and does not give a clear picture of cause and effect. Georgia, however, is taking precautionary measures and implementing a Summer Safety Initiative. Under the direction of Police Chief George N. Turner, the Atlanta Police Department will implement precautionary initiatives like increased patrols across all units (foot, mounted, etc.); dedicated safety zones during special events; routine traffic stops; and youth prevention programs.
Sources: Julia Dahl, CBS News; Hunt Archibold, Midtown.patch.com
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