Texas’ heat-related deaths are likely undercounted

As Texans endure the dog days of summer, experts say deaths related to heat in Texas and nationwide are likely undercounted, the Texas Standard reported.

With climate change causing warmer days and nights, last year was the hottest on record in Texas. Though this summer has not been quite as brutal, those working outside are still at considerable risk.

In 2023, 365 people in Texas died directly from heat, and heat was named a contributing factor in another 197 deaths. Accounting for heat’s role in a death is challenging, however.