Maricopa County’s innovative Heat-Related Illness and Death Dashboard has received a 2025 Model Practice Award from the National Association of County and City Health Officials, marking a national recognition of the county’s efforts to combat the dangers of extreme heat through data and collaboration.
The dashboard tracks heat-related illness and death trends across the region, with weekly updates during the summer months and detailed annual surveillance reports. Health officials say the tool plays a critical role in understanding the impacts of rising temperatures and in informing local response efforts.
“This national recognition highlights the power of data, collaboration, and public health innovation in addressing extreme heat,” the Maricopa County Department of Public Health said in a statement.
The award is the latest in a series of national honors for the county’s heat response work. NACCHO previously recognized Maricopa County with Model Practice Awards in 2023 for its comprehensive evaluation of cooling centers and in 2024 for Synapse, a platform for community health partnership. Each of the projects collects and shares data to better inform public health strategies and protect residents from heat-related illness and death.
As of July 31, there have been 22 confirmed heat-related deaths in Maricopa County, according to official death certificate data. Another 314 deaths remain under investigation as potentially heat-related.
Extreme heat remains the leading cause of weather-related death in the United States. In Arizona, where summer temperatures frequently exceed 110°F, public health officials say continued action is essential.
“Heat deaths are preventable,” said Dr. Nick Staab, chief medical officer for Maricopa County Department of Public Health. “Last year’s decline in heat-related deaths shows that coordinated, community-based efforts work. But the danger of extreme heat remains very real, particularly for people without stable housing, older adults, and people who use substances.”
In response, Maricopa County leads a regional heat relief effort in partnership with the Maricopa Association of Governments, cities, and community organizations. Now in its 19th season, the Heat Relief Network operates more than 200 cooling centers, hydration stations, and donation sites from May through September.
Libraries in Goodyear and Litchfield Park are among the participating locations. The Georgia T. Lord Library at 1900 N. Civic Square and the Litchfield Park Library at 101 W. Wigwam Blvd. provide air-conditioned spaces for anyone seeking relief from the heat, free of charge.
“The Heat Relief Map is a vital tool that connects people to life-saving resources in real time,” said Amy St. Peter, MAG’s Community Initiatives Director. “By leveraging technology and regional partnerships, we’re making it easier for residents to find the help they need to stay safe.”
Residents can find nearby cooling centers and hydration stations using the interactive map at azmag.gov/heatrelief, or by calling 2-1-1. Operators are available from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily in English and Spanish.
Health officials warn that anyone can suffer from heat-related illness—regardless of age or health status—and urge the public to take precautions:
Drink water before feeling thirsty and consider electrolyte beverages if sweating heavily.
Wear loose, light-colored clothing and wide-brimmed hats.
Use air conditioning whenever possible; fans alone are not effective above 95°F.
Never leave children, pets, or vulnerable adults in parked vehicles.
Check regularly on older adults and those living alone.
Additional resources and the award-winning dashboard can be found at maricopa.gov/heat.
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