Phoenix’s scorching summer heat turns deadly for some homeless

PHOENIX – The record-breaking summer temperatures in Phoenix have proved to be deadly for some of the city’s homeless population.

“In the last couple of weeks, there’s been a handful – probably five or six people that we have cared for after a long time that have passed from stuff that is not related to COVID, but some degree heat related,” Christopher Pexton, medical director for Phoenix-based nonprofit Circle the City, told KTAR News 92.3 FM.

Although elderly people are more at risk from illnesses such as COVID-19, age does not play as big a factor when it comes to heat-related fatalities.

“There are elderly people with complications, but also people in their 20s and 30s that have been found … their bodies in their tents,” Pexton said.

He added that tents often utilized by the homeless can easily trap heat — causing temperatures to rise quickly

Through Sept. 30, those experiencing homelessness will be allowed to stay inside a vacant Maricopa County building between 6 p.m. and 7 a.m.

The county has 130 beds for people to sleep in overnight during the summer heat.

Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego also announced in May that the south hall of the Phoenix Convention Center will be open to the homeless to take in the air conditioning during excessive heat warnings.

Circle the City’s mission is to provide quality health care to people experiencing homelessness in Maricopa County.

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