Excruciating Summer Heat Claims 63 Lives in Las Vegas

The Clark County coroner’s office has published a report outlining the number of casualties caused by the record-breaking summer heat. As it turns out, the scorching-hot 2024 weather has claimed the lives of 63 people from Las Vegas between May 27 and July 27.

To make matters worse, the coroner’s office expects this figure to increase significantly by the end of the hotter season. Additionally, this figure only includes confirmed cases that have been investigated by the coroner’s office.

Many casualties are vulnerable people struggling with old age and/or health issues. The oldest person on the list, for example is a 94-year-old who lived with diabetes. Conversely, the youngest casualty was a 29-year-old man who was notably under the effects of methamphetamine.

Of note, the coroner’s office warned the people of Las Vegas that certain drugs, including fentanyl, increase the negative impact of the hot weather. According to the office, such substances function akin to co-morbidities and exacerbate the risks associated with the heat.

Likewise, certain chronic conditions, illnesses, exertion and dehydration increase the heat-related risks, the office added.

The Record-Breaking Temperatures Expose Locals to Risk

For context, Las Vegas is experiencing record-breaking heats, with temperatures exceeding 110°F/43°C for over 11 days in a row. This figure exceeds the record of 10 days set in 1962 and 2023.

Additionally, Vegas recorded five consecutive days in which the temperatures went above 115°F/46°C, exposing vulnerable people to greater risks.

The irregular weather jeopardizes the health of people. People whose body temperature exceeds their capacity to cool down risk heat stroke, which can damage the brain and other vital organs and, in some cases, even lead to death.

Despite the coroner’s office’s grim report, the Southern Nevada Health District only lists six confirmed six-related deaths in Clark County, marking a major discrepancy.

The record temperatures didn’t sway Bally’s Corporation’s decision to pursue opportunities in Las Vegas, though.