Metro Phoenix saw 600+ heat deaths in 2024, first decrease in a decade
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More than 600 people died of heat-related causes in Maricopa County last year, per a preliminary report released by the county's public health department.
Why it matters: Heat deaths more than tripled since 2019 as the Valley experienced historically hot summers and an increase in people experiencing homelessness.
- The number of deaths decreased last year, compared to the year prior, for the first time in a decade — despite Phoenix seeing the hottest summer on record.
Flashback: Following a record 645 deaths in 2023, a county report found that one of the major problems was limited hours at air-conditioned cooling centers. Very few facilities were open past 5pm or on weekends.
- The city of Phoenix stepped up last summer, opening the Valley's only 24/7 heat-relief shelter and offering extended hours at other respite centers.
- Through a partnership with Maricopa County, Glendale, Chandler, Mesa and Tempe expanded hours at other sites as well.
What they're saying: "Heat deaths are preventable, and with strategic interventions, we can continue to drive down these numbers," Maricopa County chief medical officer Nick Staab said in a statement.
By the numbers: The county medical examiner's office has confirmed 602 heat deaths in 2024 and is still investigating eight others.
- More than 60% of the deaths were "heat caused," meaning heat was directly involved in causing the death, not just a contributing factor.
- At least 50% of the people who died were experiencing homelessness.
- Nearly 60% of the heat deaths also involved drug or alcohol use.