Heat's Impact: Death Records Often Omit Climate Factor

Why it matters locally: While South Dakota's climate is generally cooler than Arizona's, extreme heat events can occur, and an accurate accounting of heat-related deaths is important for public health planning, even in states with historically fewer heat-related fatalities.

Adam Willson, who died in June 2024, does not appear in Arizona's count of heat-related fatalities. His mother, Debbie Willson, stated her belief that heat influenced his death. However, his death certificate does not mention heat. An investigation conducted by NPR and Boston University indicates that such omissions are common across the United States. These instances contribute to an undercount of the overall impact of heat. The investigation found that thousands of heat deaths may go uncounted each year. Ms. Willson holds a photo of her son, Adam Willson, reflecting on his death. The discrepancy between her understanding of the circumstances and the official record illustrates a challenge in accurately documenting heat's role in mortality.