THEMARICOPAMOD.COM / WEATHER & ENVIRONMENT

Heat-related deaths in Maricopa County surge

By mid-July, the county had confirmed 23 heat-related deaths.

PUBLISHED JUL 18, 2024

In 2023, over 600 people died from heat-related causes in Maricopa County, a sharp increase from previous years.

Phoenix, Arizona: In Maricopa County, Arizona, heat-related deaths have surged in 2024, following a record-breaking year in 2023. By mid-July, the county had confirmed 23 heat-related deaths, with 17 classified as heat-caused and six as heat-contributed. Additionally, 322 deaths are under investigation for potential heat-related causes, official statistics showed Thursday morning.

A heat report dashboard run by Maricopa County, which includes Phoenix and is the fourth most-populated county in the United States with 4.4 million people, showed 322 deaths are suspected to have been a result of heat-related illness in the year to July 13 — a huge increase on last year.

Local authorities have been proactive in their response.

The extreme heat in the region has been particularly devastating for vulnerable populations. A significant number of these deaths occur among the homeless and individuals with limited access to cooling systems. In 2023, over 600 people died from heat-related causes in Maricopa County, a sharp increase from previous years.

The county has implemented several measures to address the crisis, including launching an interactive dashboard that tracks heat-related illnesses and deaths. This tool provides real-time data, helping public health officials and residents stay informed about the ongoing situation.

Local authorities have been proactive in their response. Initiatives include the distribution of standalone air conditioners in Mesa, a city within the county, and increased community outreach to provide hydration and shelter to the homeless. These efforts aim to mitigate the impact of extreme temperatures and prevent further fatalities.