Arizona’s sweltering summer could set new record for most heat-associated deaths in big metro

Maricopa County, home to Phoenix, is on track to set a record for heat-related deaths this year. As of September 16, there were 289 confirmed heat-related deaths, with an additional 262 deaths under investigation. The number of deaths this year is significantly higher than the same period last year. About 75% of the deaths occurred outdoors, including at bus stops and parks.