Public health officials in Maricopa County, Arizona, reported a staggering 645 heat-associated deaths in 2023, marking a significant increase of over 50% compared to the previous year. This alarming figure sets a consecutive annual record for the arid metro Phoenix area.
The preliminary report by the Maricopa County Department of Public Health highlighted the need for better protection of vulnerable groups, such as homeless individuals and older adults, from the scorching summer heat. Two-thirds of the heat-related deaths in 2023 were individuals aged 50 or older, with 71% occurring on days when the National Weather Service issued excessive heat warnings.
Dr. Rebecca Sunenshine, the medical director of the county public health department, emphasized the urgency of addressing heat-related deaths as a major public health issue. She stressed the importance of a coordinated county-wide strategy to prevent these tragic outcomes.
The spike in heat-associated deaths in 2023, totaling 645, represented a significant increase from 2022, which saw 425 such deaths, and 2021, with 339 confirmed cases. Maricopa County stands out as the only major metropolitan area in the U.S. that extensively tracks and studies heat-associated deaths.
Last summer, Phoenix experienced its hottest three months on record, with soaring temperatures setting new benchmarks. The city faced extreme heat conditions, including a record-breaking July with a 31-day streak of temperatures at or above 110°F.
In response to the escalating issue of heat-related deaths, Arizona's Department of Public Health appointed Dr. Eugene Livar as the nation's first statewide heat officer. This appointment aims to address the challenges posed by extreme environmental heat and enhance preparedness efforts.
Local initiatives, such as Phoenix's office of heat response and resiliency, focus on implementing strategies to protect residents from extreme heat. Programs like cooling stations and increased tree planting aim to mitigate the impact of rising temperatures.
Maricopa County public health officials urge individuals, organizations, and local governments to collaborate in reducing heat-related deaths, particularly during the warm season from May to October. Community involvement, including checking on vulnerable individuals and supporting cooling centers, plays a crucial role in preventing heat-related fatalities.
The county's evaluation of cooling and respite centers from the previous year revealed key insights to enhance services for the upcoming summer. Efforts include establishing a bilingual heat relief call center and providing transportation assistance to ensure access to cooling facilities.
Addressing barriers such as lack of awareness and transportation challenges, the county aims to improve outreach and support for those in need during periods of extreme heat.
