YUMA, Ariz. (KYMA, KECY) – Extreme heat is becoming a deadly problem in Yuma County.

The Yuma County Sheriff's Office (YCSO) reported that 13 heatstroke deaths have occurred this year in Yuma County, which includes the surrounding cities of San Luis, Summerton and Wellton.

Officials will share what those numbers have been for the past few years.

“Last year we reported 29 cases,” said Tania Pavlak, public affairs specialist for YCSO, “and in 2022 we saw 69 migrant deaths, most of which can be attributed to exposure to extreme heat.”

People are being told to look out for symptoms of heat exhaustion or heat stroke, such as heavy sweating, muscle cramps, dizziness and nausea.

The sheriff's office says the coroner is working with the Yuma County Health Department and hospitals to keep the numbers accurate. The Yuma County Health Department said it also shares information from the state health department as a resource for the community.

“The Arizona Department of Health Services has introduced a new heat stroke dashboard so we can get some insight into what's going on in our community,” said Ryan Butcher, communications and community relations coordinator for the Yuma County Health District.

The health department also reminds local residents of other local resources, such as cooling centers and water stations, to stay hydrated on hot days.

The sheriff's office also offers a free “Are You OK?” telephone reassurance program where volunteers check on vulnerable Yuma-area residents who live alone.