PHOENIX, AZ – The scorching heatwave that has gripped the Southwest United States this summer is suspected of causing over 300 deaths in Maricopa County, according to official statistics released Thursday. The county, which includes Phoenix and ranks as the fourth most populous in the nation, reported that 322 deaths might be linked to heat-related illnesses as of July 13, marking a significant rise from the previous year.
Nearly one-third of these suspected heat-related deaths occurred during a single week, from July 7 to 13, when temperatures soared to a blistering 118 degrees. This alarming spike follows an unprecedented June, which saw record-breaking temperatures across Arizona, Nevada, and Texas.
Confirmed heat-related fatalities in Maricopa County this year stand at 23, with 17 directly attributed to the heat and six where heat was a contributing factor, according to county data. “June has been hotter than it was last year,” said Nick Staab, Assistant Medical Director for Maricopa County Public Health. “Higher temperatures elevate the risk of heat-related deaths.”
Nationwide, at least 73 heat-related deaths have been reported so far this year, based on an ongoing count. The relentless heat shows no signs of abating, with Phoenix expected to hit 116 degrees on Friday, prompting an excessive heat warning through Saturday night. Thunderstorms are also forecasted, which could provide temporary relief.
Last year, Maricopa County recorded 12 confirmed heat-related deaths and had 106 under investigation by this time. The data reveals that 70% of this year’s heat-related fatalities were male, with drug use involved in over half of the cases, and 39% of the victims were unhoused. Alcohol played a role in 13% of the deaths.
The National Weather Service has issued an Excessive Heat Warning, urging residents to take measures to mitigate the extreme temperatures’ impact. Maricopa County has set up cooling centers and offers free transportation to these facilities via a 211 hotline. Phoenix firefighters are also using ice immersion bags to rapidly reduce body temperatures in heatstroke patients.
Mesa, a city east of Phoenix, has reported the highest number of heat-related deaths within the county. Last year, Maricopa County documented 579 confirmed and 56 suspected heat-related deaths, compared to 386 in 2022, according to the Department of Health and Human Services. Notably, a quarter of last year’s deaths occurred indoors, often due to malfunctioning air conditioning units.
To better monitor the impact of extreme temperatures, Maricopa County launched a heat report dashboard in May. The tool aims to provide real-time data on heat-related illnesses and fatalities, helping authorities respond more effectively to the ongoing crisis.