The first confirmed heat-related death of 2025 in Maricopa County is an “older” man who died from injuries sustained during the 2024 heat season, health officials said Wednesday.

The announcement came as the Maricopa County Department of Public Health released the final 2024 heat-related deaths report, with 608 confirmed heat-related deaths, marking the first year-over-year decrease in such fatalities since 2014.

“This death is a tragic reminder that the effects of extreme heat can be long-lasting. Although the individual sustained heat-related injuries in 2024, he did not pass away until 2025,” Dr. Nick Staab, chief medical officer for MCDPH, said.

“It highlights the serious and sometimes delayed impact heat can have on our health.”

Here are some of the findings of the 2024 Heat-Related Deaths Report:

• Demographics: Approximately 76% of the deaths were among Maricopa County residents. Men accounted for more than 75% of the fatalities, and nearly 60% were individuals aged 50 or older.
• Location and Living Situation: More than three-quarters of the deaths occurred outdoors. Forty-nine percent were homelessness at the time of death.
• Health and Substance Use: About 45% had a medical history of cardiovascular disease, and 57% of the deaths involved substance use. Among substance-involved deaths, nearly 90% involved stimulant drugs.     

As of May 31, there are 63 suspect heat-related deaths under investigation by the Office of the Medical Examiner, county officials said.

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