Maricopa County Reports 462 Heat Deaths in 2026

Maricopa County is on track to record its highest number of heat-related deaths, with 462 confirmed so far and hundreds more under investigation. Extreme temperatures, homelessness, outdoor work and rising living costs leave many residents especially exposed, while experts say expanded cooling centers and financial assistance remain inadequate. Phoenix’s reflective-pavement pilot illustrates the complexity of heat mitigation: the coating cooled road surfaces but increased radiant heat exposure for pedestrians nearby.