Phoenix Heat Deaths Reach 113 as Extreme Heat Warning Continues Through Aug. 29

Maricopa County has confirmed 113 heat-related deaths in 2026 through Aug. 22, while 584 additional cases remain under investigation as potentially heat-related. The countywide figures come as an extreme heat warning remains in effect for the Phoenix metropolitan area through 8 p.m. MST Saturday, Aug. 29.

The National Weather Service says afternoon temperatures in the Phoenix metropolitan area could reach 107 to 113 degrees during the warning. Residents, outdoor workers, commuters and people without dependable air conditioning face continued health risks, including during unusually warm overnight hours.

County reports 113 confirmed deaths

The Maricopa County Department of Public Health released the figures Aug. 25, using data available through Aug. 22.

The county reported 113 confirmed heat-related deaths and separately listed 584 cases still under investigation. Those 584 cases are not confirmed heat deaths, and the county has not made a final determination on them. The figures cover Maricopa County and should not be read as a count limited to Phoenix city limits.

County officials said the 2026 heat season began early and has included higher-than-normal overnight temperatures. Heat exposure can remain dangerous after sunset when people and homes do not have enough time to cool.

Phoenix has broken daily heat records

KJZZ reported that Phoenix reached daily records of 115 degrees Tuesday, Aug. 25, and 117 degrees Wednesday, Aug. 26. The National Weather Service’s Phoenix-area warning, issued early Friday, Aug. 28, remains in effect through 8 p.m. MST Saturday, Aug. 29.

The warning is separate from the broader heat season. County health officials emphasized that heat illness and deaths can occur on days with or without an active heat warning.

The National Weather Service advises people to reschedule strenuous outdoor activity for early morning or evening when possible, drink plenty of water and take frequent breaks in shaded or air-conditioned spaces. Heat stroke is an emergency; call 911 when someone is showing signs of it.

Who faces higher risk

County health officials identified older adults and people with underlying medical conditions as being at higher risk. Other cited risk factors include living in a mobile home, experiencing homelessness, having inadequate cooling and using drugs, especially methamphetamine.

Anyone can develop heat illness, including people who are young, physically fit, accustomed to Arizona weather or visiting Phoenix for a short time. Residents should also check on neighbors, relatives and people who live alone, including making sure their air conditioning is working and turned on.

How Phoenix residents can stay safer

Drink water before becoming thirsty, wear lightweight clothing and avoid outdoor activity during the hottest part of the day. If you must work or travel outside, take regular breaks in shade or air conditioning.

County officials advise using air conditioning indoors, especially when outdoor temperatures exceed 90 degrees. Once temperatures rise above 95 degrees, fans alone may not provide enough cooling to keep people safe.

Never leave children, pets or anyone who depends on you inside a parked vehicle. Heat can become deadly quickly, even during a short stop.

Call 2-1-1 for cooling help

People who need a place to cool down can call 2-1-1 for information about free cooling centers, transportation, water and other heat-relief services. Residents can also use the regional Heat Relief Network to locate participating cooling sites.

The current warning is scheduled to expire at 8 p.m. MST Saturday, Aug. 29, but the danger does not end with the alert. Phoenix residents should continue taking precautions throughout the heat season and seek help before heat illness becomes severe.

Sources

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