The research by Las Vegas-based personal injury lawyers Ladah Injury & Car Accident Lawyers analyzed heat-related illness deaths and record temperatures across major U.S. states. It measured two main metrics: Heat-Related Illness Deaths (scored out of 60 points) and All-time Maximum Temperature (scored out of 40 points). These metrics were totaled to rank the states from most dangerous to least dangerous on a 100-point scale, with higher scores indicating greater heat-related risks.
Arizona leads with a dangerous heatwave threat score of 98/100. With a population of 7,251,787, the state suffered 1,707 heat-related illness deaths between 2018-2022 (scoring 60/60), and has recorded an all-time maximum temperature of 128°F (scoring 38/40).
“The research reveals that Arizona could face the most severe consequences of extreme heat events this year, given their high rates of heat-related illness deaths and record-breaking temperatures,” a spokesperson from Ladah Law commented. “For people living in these hot spots, that translates into more heat exhaustion, heat stroke and other serious illnesses — and longer waits for help when ambulances and hospital beds are tied up. Those most at risk are older adults, young children and anyone working outside in the sun all day.”
Addressing this growing threat requires immediate multifaceted intervention. Communities must implement more robust early warning systems, establish additional cooling centers in vulnerable neighborhoods, update building codes to require better insulation and cooling systems, and develop targeted outreach programs for at-risk populations, particularly seniors and outdoor workers.
Table of Extended Results:
The study was conducted by Ladah Law, a personal injury law firm dedicated to helping victims of heat-related illness and other injuries receive the compensation and justice they deserve.
Photo: Clear Channel Outdoor and Maricopa County are teaming up on a digital billboard campaign to reduce heat deaths in the region.
