Despite logging the hottest summer on record, Maricopa County saw fewer heat-related deaths last summer compared to 2023. County health officials released a report today citing 602 heat-related deaths in 2024, down from 645 in 2023. Eight deaths are still under investigation.
Phoenix opened a 24-hour heat respite site last summer and extended hours at other heat relief sites that saw more than 28,000 visits. It was the only Valley city to offer overnight heat relief. Similar plans are on track for summer 2025.
Through those heat relief sites, Phoenix secured shelter or permanent housing for more than 800 people experiencing homelessness, among them 120 families with young children.
“No deaths are acceptable, and we’ll continue to work to ensure our most vulnerable residents, including those experiencing homelessness, have shelter and heat relief options during our extreme summer heat,” Mayor Kate Gallego said. “But these numbers show that we’re having an impact, we’re making a difference, and we’re saving lives.”
The City of Phoenix invested nearly $185 million over the last five years in capital projects and homeless service operations, created an Office of Homeless Solutions and an Office of Heat Response and Mitigation, and added more than 1,880 temporary and permanent shelter beds since 2022.
In 2024, the City spent about $3 million for summer heat relief and services.
“Through successful policymaking and with thanks to Mayor Gallego’s leadership, we were able to see a significant reduction in heat-related deaths,” Vice Mayor Ann O’Brien said. “I’m committed to continuing our efforts to reduce the heat island effect through policies like the Cool Pavement Program and Canopy for Kids, and ensuring we save lives through thoughtful planning and implementation of our extended hours cooling centers.”
Councilwoman Betty Guardado said that “the decline in heat deaths is a step in the right direction, but, as summer looms, there is still work to do.”
“These lives could not have been saved without Phoenix leadership and staff prioritizing heat readiness and delivering when needed most,” Guardado said. “It’s important that we continue to invest in cool spaces across the city and county, which are proving to be lifesaving.”
Phoenix also worked with community organizations, including St. Vincent de Paul and UMOM New Day Centers, to open a shelter and transitional housing to bridge individuals and families until they find a home. The city also purchased a hotel it plans to convert into permanent homes with supportive services.
“For the first time in a decade, Phoenix saw a decline in heat-related deaths last year, proving that our expanded relief efforts make a difference,” Councilwoman Kesha Hodge Washington said. “As we prepare for this summer, we remain committed to ensuring that the appropriate resources and infrastructure are in place to keep our community safe.”
Councilwoman Laura Pastor said the City’s “investments in cooling centers, shelters, and extended heat respite hours saved lives. Fewer heat-related deaths show that smart solutions and community care can make a real difference.”
Councilwoman Debra Stark said the latest county report is proof that what the City of Phoenix is doing is working. “The Heat Relief Program is saving lives, and I hope this is the beginning of downward trend of heat related fatalities,” she said.
Councilman Carlos Galindo-Elvira thanked the community for their patience and support. “This success is a direct result of Phoenix's investment in resources for the unhoused and the community’s enduring support,” Galindo-Elvira said. “A bit of discomfort led to a significant impact in saving lives, and I sincerely thank everyone for their patience and commitment to doing the right thing, ensuring the protection of our most vulnerable during a critical time."
Phoenix heat-related statistics
(May 1 through September 25, 2024)
- 1,358 heat related calls for service (Source: Phoenix FD). Of those calls, only 203 were within a mile of a cooling or respite center during extended operating hours.
- 33,247 visits in respite and extended hour cooling centers (based on intake forms received).
- 30,304 visitors indicated they were experiencing homelessness.
- 29,757 visitors indicated they only wanted cooling services.
- 959 visitors received direct onsite assistance from CBI with various shelter or homeless solutions referrals.
