PHOENIX — The heat is on and the numbers don't lie.

Last month was Phoenix's hottest June on record, with an average temperature of 97 degrees, about 2 degrees warmer than the 2021 record so far.

There has already been an alarming number of heatstroke deaths investigated in Maricopa County, and the heat is becoming a growing problem for many who live on the streets.

“Heat is known as a silent killer because it can sneak up on you so quickly, and anyone with any underlying health conditions is at risk,” said Stacey Champion, a homeless community outreach worker.

Champion called for increased attention and immediate solutions to reduce heatstroke deaths, which have already led to six confirmed heatstroke deaths in Maricopa County so far this year, including people who have become homeless.

The county coroner is still investigating 111 deaths as a result of heatstroke, up from the 77 deaths under investigation at the same time last year.

June 2023 was cooler than normal, but July was hot.

“If you see someone lying on the ground this time of year, that's not normal. Ground temperatures can get up to 160 to 170 degrees Fahrenheit,” Champion said.

The number of people visiting hospitals due to heatstroke is also increasing.

“We have a lot of people out here working outside in the heat, and eviction rates are still skyrocketing,” Champion said.

Staying cool indoors is just as important as staying cool outdoors. People die from heat stroke if their air conditioner breaks or is turned off to save money. Staying hydrated and keeping an eye on your neighbors will help keep you and those around you safe this summer.

“We need to understand that these are largely preventable deaths, and we need to do more as a city, as a county and as a state to address this issue,” Champion said.