In a concerning development, the number of heat-related deaths in Phoenix, the hottest major city in the United States, has nearly doubled compared to the same period last year. The scorching temperatures experienced in June, the hottest ever recorded in the city's history, have contributed to this worrying trend.

According to reports from the Maricopa county medical examiner, there have been a total of 175 possible heat deaths as of June 29th. This represents a staggering 84% increase from last year. Of those, 13 have been confirmed as heat deaths, while 162 remain under investigation. These numbers highlight the escalating toll that extreme heat is taking on the population.

Maricopa county, where Phoenix is located, has witnessed a steady rise in heat-related deaths year after year, despite efforts by the city and state to combat this alarming trend. Last year alone, the county recorded a record-breaking 645 heat deaths, a shocking 700% increase over the past decade. The majority of these fatalities have occurred in Phoenix, despite the implementation of measures to address the increasing heat mortality and morbidity.

Experts have noted that the surge in early-season heat-related deaths this year might be partly explained by a cooler-than-normal June. However, the unprecedented July heatwave, with temperatures forecast to exceed 115F (46C) in Phoenix and set records in parts of California and Las Vegas, is a major concern for public health experts. The National Weather Service (NWS) has warned that the heat dome, characterized by high pressure and warm air, is projected to linger until the middle of next week, intensifying the heatwave.

Of particular worry are the rising nighttime temperatures, which have reached record highs. The body's ability to recover from heat stress is hindered until temperatures drop below 80F (27C). This makes the hotter nights increasingly hazardous to public health.

Tragically, the confirmed heat deaths in Maricopa county so far this year reveal a disproportionate impact on certain communities. 46% of the victims were Black, Latino or Indigenous Americans, and 69% were men. Preliminary investigations suggest that at least two deaths occurred due to inadequate indoor cooling systems.

The Phoenix fire department has also reported a high number of heat-related emergency calls this year, with paramedics responding to 424 incidents. The situation is further complicated by the city's decision to evict a large homeless encampment from downtown, as last year's fatalities included a significant number of unsheltered individuals. This year, 31% of the confirmed deaths have involved unhoused people.

The rise in heat-related deaths in Phoenix reflects a broader trend both in the United States and globally. Official counts are likely underestimates, as many regions lack the comprehensive processes implemented by Maricopa county. Reports from local health officials indicate that heat-related deaths have occurred in Idaho and Kansas City this year as well.

Phoenix's struggles with intensifying heat are exacerbated by decades of unchecked urban development, leading to the creation of a heat island effect. The city is actively working on various programs to address this issue, but the urgent need to mitigate the impact of rising temperatures remains.

As the heatwave grips the region and temperatures continue to soar, it is crucial for authorities and communities to prioritize public health and implement measures to protect vulnerable populations from the deadly consequences of extreme heat.