Phoenix's Response to Extreme Heat

As climate change intensifies, Phoenix, Arizona, is grappling with unprecedented heat levels, recording temperatures 5 to 6 degrees higher than the historical norm. This surge in heat has led to a staggering increase in heat-related fatalities in Maricopa County, which have quadrupled over the past seven years, escalating from 154 deaths in 2016 to a harrowing 645 in the previous year. The city, known for its sprawling concrete landscape, is now confronting the harsh reality that extreme heat exacerbates vulnerabilities among its residents. In response to the escalating crisis, city officials, including Phoenix Fire Captain John Prato, have implemented urgent measures to combat heat illness. Every ambulance and firetruck is now equipped with body bags filled with ice, allowing first responders to rapidly cool victims of heat stroke. The goal is to lower their body temperature to below 102.4 degrees within 30 minutes of onset, a strategy that has shown success in both sports and military settings. The impact of heat is disproportionately felt by the unhoused population, with approximately 65% of recent heat-related deaths involving individuals struggling with addiction. Mayor Kate Gallego highlighted the tragic loss of lives, particularly among those under the influence of methamphetamines, who often fail to seek shelter during extreme heat events. To address these challenges, Gallego established the nation’s first Office of Heat Response and Mitigation in 2021, and the Phoenix City Council recently passed worker protection laws aimed at enhancing safety in outdoor environments. The city is also striving to increase shade coverage in heavily trafficked areas, recognizing that even small changes can significantly improve outdoor comfort and safety.