City of Phoenix Unveils Robust 2026 Heat Response Plan

On Tuesday, Feb. 24, the 2026 Heat Response Plan was approved by the Mayor and City Council as a part of the City of Phoenix’s continued heat relief efforts. 

“Phoenix recognizes extreme heat as a public health emergency and continues to deliver new strategies to keep residents safe,” Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego said. “Our 2026 Heat Response Plan builds upon recent progress, including two consecutive years of declining heat-related deaths. We will continue providing 24/7 and extended hour cooling centers throughout the city, including a new partnership with UMOM to offer emergency heat relief shelter for families.” 

Last summer, confirmed heat-related deaths in Maricopa County were approximately 30% lower than reported for 2024, marking the second consecutive year of declines. The Phoenix Fire Department saw a reduction in the severity of heat-related illnesses and deaths this season. Although 911 heat-related calls remained high, fewer cases required significant resources including ice water immersion or hospital transports.

Strong public education and clear messaging helped our community recognize symptoms early and take preventative action. Increased awareness continues to make a measurable difference in keeping Phoenix residents safe during extreme heat. 

“Our heat leadership team is encouraged to see a second year of reductions in heat-related deaths and severe illnesses,” said Office of Heat Response and Mitigation Director David Hondula. “We remain committed to a data-driven, hyper-collaborative approach that engages the full suite of city departments and many community partners to push for even further reductions in 2026.”  

Respite & Cooling Centers 

As part of the 2026 Plan, the City will continue to operate a 24/7 respite center at 20 W. Jackson Street. Additionally, Phoenix will partner with Justa Center, 1001 W. Jefferson St., who will offer cooling center hours from 3-9 p.m. Both locations are within the Downtown Phoenix areas where there were increased 911 calls. The sites will also offer a cool space for residents as well as navigation services to connect people experiencing homelessness with resources, and transportation to shelter or other services as needed.    

Additionally, Phoenix will offer extended hours at Cholla Library until 9 p.m. Monday-Saturday and noon-9 p.m. on Sundays and holidays. This location will also offer full library services during extended hours. 

The City will partner with UMOM New Day Centers on a referral basis for families who visit one of our extended hour or 24 hour locations to provide heat respite and connections to resources and services for families with minor children experiencing homelessness seven days per week.

Phoenix is also utilizing $450,000 in FEMA Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities Grant Funding to ensure public-facing City employees are trained on best practices to connect residents to heat-related services and resources throughout Phoenix.

Community Connection & Outreach 

The 2026 Plan also includes a partnership with various organizations and departments to help raise awareness about heat. The American Red Cross will perform outreach in mobile home and senior communities ahead of the summer to provide safety information and resources. 

Park Stewards and Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) will conduct outreach at select trailheads throughout the summer. Volunteers will be stationed at Camelback Mountain, Piestewa Peak, and South Mountain every Saturday from May 1 to Sept. 30, between 7 and 10 a.m., providing heat safety education and cold water to trail users. 

Next Steps 

Staff from relevant departments will now explore opportunities to further improve the Heat Response Plan based on suggestions made at today’s City Council Policy Session. The City of Phoenix will execute its Heat Response Programs and Services beginning May 1.