Deaths In Las Vegas Heat Spiked In 2023: SNHD

Watching television and seeing a seven day forecast with nothing but triple digits is no fun. Nor is breaking new records. However it's less than unfun. It's deadly. Deaths in Las Vegas heat went up considerably from 2022 to 2023 according to data from the Southern Nevada Health District.

Heat-related deaths in 2023 shot up to 294 total, with slightly more than half being directly caused by the heat. That's up from 165 in 2022. Data from the last five years shows an upward trend in the mortality rate.

The data shows deaths in Las Vegas heat are more often than not a male problem. 73 percent of those who died due to heat-related incidents were men, compared to 27 percent of women. Nearly half of all of those who died were between the ages of 45-64.

While it is easy to say (and good advise) that you should seek shade and stay hydrated, a large minority of those who perished in 2023 died while under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

39 percent of those who suffered heat-related deaths had positive tests for drugs or alcohol, with three quarters of those who died testing positive for methamphetamines.

Data from the Southern Nevada Health District tracks, to morbid and depressing detail, every statistic of those who died due to the Southern Nevada heat. July shows a drastic shoot-up in deaths, tapering off in June and August like a bell curve.

Unfortunately it appears as though a large determining factor in the death rate is related to income. Heat-related deaths in 2023 were almost all centrally located and towards the east and northeast Las Vegas valley, areas known for lower incomes and older homes with potentially decaying cooling infrastructure.

Remember the cities of Las Vegas, North Las Vegas and Henderson, along with Clark County, offer up cooling stations to keep you safe in these brutal summer temperatures.

So be safe this summer, get plenty of water, plenty of shade, and perhaps hold off on the elicit drugs (at least until the thermostat reads double digits).

The Las Vegas summer season is a hot topic among tourists and locals alike. Everybody loves to have a good time and enjoy the city's nightlife, but it can be quite challenging to do so when the temperatures soar up to 100°F and beyond. Luckily, there are some effective ways to stay cool and fresh even during the hottest months of the year. Before we dive into seven fantastic ways to beat the Las Vegas summer heat, let's talk about why these seven are so important in the first place.

First, let's talk about the geography and elevation of Las Vegas. Located in the Mojave Desert, Las Vegas is surrounded by mountains on all sides, and with an elevation of 2,000 feet above sea level, the city has dry climate and low humidity. This unique setting means that the sun's rays hit the ground directly and bounce back up, causing a hot oven effect. All of that to say... That's why we feel like we're melting in the Las Vegas summer heat.

The temperature in Las Vegas has continually increased over the past few years, and the reason behind it is none other than global warming. In recent years, the world has experienced warmer temperatures, resulting in extreme weather conditions such as heatwaves and powerful hurricanes. Las Vegas is no exception. The city's average high temperature in June is 100 degrees Fahrenheit, but in recent years, we have seen temperatures soar to 110 degrees and above.

If you aren't a Las Vegas local and you drive through the city, you'll probably immediately notice a scarcity of greenery. The city's water supply is limited, and most of it is used for hotels, casinos, and golf courses. The lack of trees and plants means that there is nothing to absorb the heat, and the asphalt and concrete roads trap the heat, making the temperature even hotter in the summer.

We all know that humans play a considerable role in the environment's deterioration, and, of course, Las Vegas is no exception. The city's 24-hour culture and the city's rapidly-growing population, along with tourism, result in increased carbon emissions, which further contribute to the issue of global warming. So, the next time we feel like complaining about the heat, we should remember that we are partly responsible for the scorching temperatures. Sigh.

While we need to continually need to take steps to minimize our carbon footprint, we also need to ensure we are able to survive and thrive in these extremely high Las Vegas temperatures.

Check out these seven ways to beat the Las Vegas summer heat!

Las Vegas is (obviously) one of the driest cities in Nevada, with a higher than average occurrence of heat-related illnesses. The first and foremost thing to keep in mind when you're in Vegas and doing ANY of the below activities is to stay hydrated. Drink plenty of water and avoid beverages that can dehydrate you like alcohol, soda, and coffee (but you know, a little might be alright).

The City of Las Vegas is famous for its numerous swimming pools and water parks. Why not hit one of them with your family, your kiddos, or your friends and cool off? The Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino boasts of one of the best pool scenes in town and, believe it or not, even has a sandy beach. Plus there are plenty of local swimming pools and splash pads at our local Clark County parks. Grab your sunnies and your best swimwear and make a splash!

Have you ever heard of an Ice Bar? It's a winter wonderland in the middle of the hottest state in America. The Minus 5° Ice Experience is situated in three locations on the Las Vegas Strip - the Venetian Hotel, the LINQ Promenade, and Mandalay Bay. It's a unique way to cool off and have a good time, and you will be provided with insulated parkas, gloves, and boots for your experience. You can also enjoy a premium cocktail in a glass made entirely of ice!

When temperatures rise, it's the perfect excuse to shop 'til you drop. The Fashion Show Mall, The Forum Shops at Caesars Palace, and The Grand Canal Shoppes at The Venetian will not only give you an air-conditioned refuge, but they house some of the most luxurious shops in the city, so take advantage of the malls while relaxing in some refreshingly cold air conditioning.

Now I know what you're thinking. Why would you go out in this heat and take part in a hike at Red Rock Canyon? The best part of this way to beat the Las Vegas summer heat is that parts of Red Rock Canyon are actually much cooler, at an average temperature in the mid-80s. The natural rock formations and scenic canyon will awe-inspire you, so rent a Jeep and explore or hike the Red Rock Canyon trails. Just make sure to bring lots of water and sun protection!

There are many excellent museums in Las Vegas that are packed with history and culture. If you're not the kind to be held down by the heat, some of the popular museums that might interest you are the National Atomic Testing Museum, the Mob Museum, and the Neon Museum. Explore the air-conditioned hallways, and enrich your knowledge as you have fun!

'Tis hot, and you deserve a treat. Why not indulge yourself in a relaxing day spa experience? Bellagio Spa is known for its outstanding services and stunning views of the strip. The Qua Baths and Spa at Caesars Palace is another place that has an excellent reputation for its variety of high-quality treatments. Spend a day being pampered, and your body will thank you.

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