'I still cry to this day' Family and friends mourn AZ deaths caused by lack of AC

Maricopa County has seen at least 270 deaths from heat-related causes since 2020, largely due to residents lacking functional air conditioning. Families recount tragic stories, such as Sean Knapp, who lost his father Richard to a stroke exacerbated by heat exposure in a trailer with broken AC. Similarly, Vivian Stewart, 78, perished during a heatwave after rejecting assistance from her children. The region faced record-breaking temperatures, with highs reaching 118 degrees, making it perilous for those without cooling systems. Many residents remain unaware of the dangers or are unwilling to seek help, leading to preventable tragedies.

The county's climate challenges emphasize the necessity for affordable air conditioning repairs and cooling assistance programs. As temperatures rise, the need for intervention becomes increasingly urgent. Local leaders must address this public health crisis to protect vulnerable populations from extreme heat exposure.