Homeless Battle Severe Heat in Phoenix amid Record-Breaking Temperatures

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In Phoenix, America’s hottest major city, homeless individuals like Stefon James Dewitt Livengood are combating extreme heat conditions within their improvised homes. Living with symptoms of heat exhaustion such as difficulty in breathing and continuous nausea, Livengood has been struggling with temperatures consistently exceeding 110 degrees Fahrenheit (43.3 degrees Celsius) this month.

Although he briefly sought help at a free clinic that measured his blood pressure, no additional medical assistance was provided for his apparent heat-induced ailments, including skin peeling that he attributes to sun exposure. Treading cautiously across the tent city, Livengood remains aware of the potential for serious burns from the scorching asphalt if he stumbles.

Livengood advises others, “Inform someone when you’re heading outside so your location can be monitored to prevent heat-related unconsciousness. If you collapse in this heat, you risk getting third-degree burns from the ground.”

The 38-year-old’s dwelling is a makeshift structure, pieced together with scraps of wood and metal covered by a blue vinyl tarp. The interior, equipped with an old recliner and a bicycle, offers enough space for movement. Recently, he’s been spending more time indoors, with the dwelling sides open.

Fellow homeless acquaintances check on him, ensuring his well-being. “If I’m not seen around, some friends come to look after me,” Livengood said.

Those without a home are among the populations at highest risk of death due to extreme heat in Phoenix. This city is experiencing its longest ever streak of consecutive 110 Fahrenheit days, reaching 28 on the recent count. Despite overnight relief from the season’s first monsoon storm, the situation remains perilous, especially for the homeless, as they face constant heat exposure, explains Dr. Geoff Comp from Valleywise Health in central Phoenix.

Outdoor living also increases the risk of burns from hot metal, concrete, or asphalt. Arizona Burn Center–Valleywise Health recently highlighted this danger, with outside surfaces reaching temperatures up to 180 degrees Fahrenheit (82.2 degrees Celsius). Between June and August last year, the center treated 85 people for heat-related surface burns, seven of whom died.

Record-breaking temperatures above 90 degrees Fahrenheit (32.2 degrees Celsius) persisted for 16 consecutive nights, eventually falling to 89 Fahrenheit (31.6 Celsius) on Thursday following a dust storm, strong winds, and light rainfall. Healthcare professionals warn that without a significant drop in temperature after sunset, it’s challenging for people, especially those in makeshift homes without cooling systems, to lower their body temperature.

Livengood’s home lacks an air conditioner, fan, or even electricity. His only cooling device is a small handheld plastic fan.

Last year, during the hottest summer on record, 40% of the 425 heat-related deaths in Maricopa County, where Phoenix is located, were homeless individuals. Over half of these deaths occurred in July, with 80% taking place outdoors.

As of July 22, Maricopa County has confirmed 25 heat-related deaths since April 11 this year, with an additional 249 deaths still under investigation.

Livengood’s shelter is among 800 other makeshift dwellings surrounding Arizona’s largest temporary shelter, in an area referred to as “The Zone.” The tightly-packed tents amplify the oppressive heat, but the site is strategically positioned near agencies providing social services, food, and crucial water supplies, such as the Society of St. Vincent de Paul, the Boys and Girls Club, the YMCA, and St. Mary’s Food Bank.

With access to meals from local faith-based groups, Livengood manages his days with naps in his recliner. During extremely hot days, Valley Metro provides empty, air-conditioned buses for respite. Other times, Livengood and his friends find shade under trees at a nearby city park. He said, “It’s a crucial aspect of ensuring everyone’s safety in ‘The Zone’. We receive hygiene products, sunscreen, lip balm, hats, and cooling rags. There’s a lot of compassion here.”

Livengood recounts a troubled childhood filled with neglect and instability. Born as Jesse James Acosta Jr., he grew up in a low-income neighborhood in south Phoenix. His parents spent time in prison, and his mother battled addiction and homelessness. Adopted at the age of 12 by a woman named Denise, who renamed him, Livengood moved to Alaska. After the tragic death of his adoptive mother in a car accident, he returned to Phoenix, leaving behind his son and the mother, a decision he now regrets.

Despite the hardships, Livengood continues to educate others about heat dangers. He advises, “Stay hydrated, drink plenty of water even when you think you’ve had enough. And then drink some more.”

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Homeless Heat Struggles

More about Homeless Heat Struggles

• Extreme Heat and Homelessness
• Addressing Homelessness in Phoenix
• Health Risks of Extreme Heat
• Arizona Burn Center–Valleywise Health
• Heat-Related Illnesses
• Impact of Climate Change on Homeless
• The Society of St. Vincent de Paul
• Boys and Girls Club of Greater Scottsdale
• Valleywise Health in Central Phoenix