Arizona Appoints First Statewide Heat Officer to Combat Extreme Temperatures

Dr. Eugene Livar's appointment marks a significant step in Arizona's efforts to address the growing threat of heat waves.

Arizona has appointed Dr. Eugene Livar as the nation's first statewide heat officer to address the effects of extreme heat.
The appointment is part of Gov. Katie Hobbs' Extreme Heat Preparedness Plan, aiming to coordinate state and municipal efforts against heat waves.
Dr. Livar has been with Arizona's health department since 2012 and has contributed to the state's heat plan.
The initiative includes deploying additional cooling centers and improving emergency response to heat waves.
Maricopa County, including Phoenix, recorded over 400 heat-associated deaths last summer, underscoring the urgency of addressing extreme heat.