The Maricopa County Department of Public Health (MCDPH) has confirmed the first heat-related death of 2025, involving an older adult male who succumbed to injuries sustained during the previous year’s heat season. This announcement coincides with the release of MCDPH’s final report on heat-related deaths for 2024, which recorded 608 fatalities—a decrease from prior years and the first such decline since 2014.
Dr. Nick Staab, Chief Medical Officer for MCDPH, stated, “This death is a tragic reminder that the effects of extreme heat can be long-lasting. Although the individual sustained heat-related injuries in 2024, he did not pass away until 2025.” He emphasized the serious and sometimes delayed impact of heat on health.
In response to last summer’s record-breaking temperatures, MCDPH is working with community partners to enhance heat mitigation strategies. These include extended cooling center hours and targeted interventions for high-risk groups. Dr. Staab added, “We urge residents to stay informed, take precautions, and use available resources. Heat-related deaths are especially tragic because they’re preventable.”
Key findings from the 2024 Heat-Related Deaths Report show that approximately 76% of deaths were among county residents; over 75% were men; nearly 60% were aged 50 or older; more than three-quarters occurred outdoors; and about half involved individuals experiencing homelessness. Additionally, around 45% had cardiovascular disease histories and substance use was noted in 57% of cases—with stimulants involved in nearly 90%.
Currently, there are 63 suspected heat-related deaths under investigation by the Office of the Medical Examiner as of May’s end. The MCDPH plans to publish a dashboard for tracking confirmed cases after five have been reported.
“The dashboard is a valuable tool for sharing preliminary heat surveillance data throughout the season,” said Dr. Staab. It aids in identifying trends and focusing outreach efforts.
Residents are advised to stay hydrated, wear appropriate clothing, utilize air conditioning when possible, check on vulnerable individuals frequently, never leave children or pets in cars unattended, and seek medical care if symptoms of heat illness appear.
For more information on nearby cooling centers and services: visit azmag.gov/heatrelief or call Maricopa County’s helpline at 2-1-1.
