Heat wave in Phoenix claimed lives of more than 400 people

A deadly heat wave in metro Phoenix last summer caused over 400 fatalities, highlighting the severe impact of extreme temperatures on vulnerable populations.

Anita Snow reports for The Associated Press.

In short:

Priscilla Orr, 75, died from heat exposure in a supermarket parking lot after losing her home to a scam.
Over two-thirds of the 645 heat-related deaths in Maricopa County occurred during a 31-day streak of temperatures above 110°F.
Victims ranged widely in age and background, including the elderly, homeless, and those with health issues.

Key quote:

"This should not have happened to her. She should have lived until she was 100."

— Anna Marie Colella

Why this matters:

This tragic event emphasizes the need for strategies to mitigate the effects of climate change. Extreme heat, often exacerbated by urban heat islands, can be especially dangerous for the elderly, young children, and those with preexisting health conditions.

apnews.com

Heat wave in Phoenix claimed lives of more than 400 people

Climate threats could cost Alaska billions. After October's storm, advocates say it’s time to act

COP30: Could Brazil’s ambitious new ‘Tropical Forests Forever’ fund help curb deforestation?

2025 Elections: How rising energy costs are shaking up American politics

The ocean has been hoarding heat. Now it is building up a massive 'burp'

Firefighters wear wristbands to track harmful exposures

China is the new science power: how will Europe respond?

Insiders warn how dismantling federal agencies could put science at risk

Multiple Houston-area oil and gas facilities that have violated pollution laws are seeking permit renewals

One facility has emitted cancer-causing chemicals into waterways at levels up to 520% higher than legal limits.

Pennsylvania health advocates say Trump’s first 100 days in office have caused “100 harms” to local communities

“They're terrorizing these scientists because they want to keep them silent.”

Regulators are underestimating health impacts from air pollution: Study

"The reality is, we are not exposed to one chemical at a time.”

Two years into his term, has Gov. Shapiro kept his promises to regulate Pennsylvania’s fracking industry?

A new report assesses the administration’s progress and makes new recommendations

An open letter from EPA staff to the American public

“We cannot stand by and allow this to happen. We need to hold this administration accountable.”

New evidence links heavy metal pollution with wildfire retardants

“The chemical black box” that blankets wildfire-impacted areas is increasingly under scrutiny.