As intense heat waves become more common, the risk of heat-related deaths is rising.

Deaths from heat-related illnesses in the United States have more than doubled since 1999, according to a study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) Network Open.
“Heat-related mortality rates have been rising steadily since 2016, the researchers noted, with the highest number recorded in 2023, the hottest year on record,” writes Samantha Anderer. The mortality rate rose by 17 percent between 2016 and 2023.
The researchers add that some deaths may be misclassified, so heat-related deaths could be higher. “The researchers noted that the rise in temperatures from climate change would increase these types of deaths even more.”
FULL STORY: Study: Heat-Related Deaths on the Rise in US Since 2016

Maui's Vacation Rental Debate Turns Ugly
Verbal attacks, misinformation campaigns and fistfights plague a high-stakes debate to convert thousands of vacation rentals into long-term housing.

Planetizen Federal Action Tracker
A weekly monitor of how Trump’s orders and actions are impacting planners and planning in America.

In Urban Planning, AI Prompting Could be the New Design Thinking
Creativity has long been key to great urban design. What if we see AI as our new creative partner?

King County Supportive Housing Program Offers Hope for Unhoused Residents
The county is taking a ‘Housing First’ approach that prioritizes getting people into housing, then offering wraparound supportive services.

Researchers Use AI to Get Clearer Picture of US Housing
Analysts are using artificial intelligence to supercharge their research by allowing them to comb through data faster. Though these AI tools can be error prone, they save time and housing researchers are optimistic about the future.

Making Shared Micromobility More Inclusive
Cities and shared mobility system operators can do more to include people with disabilities in planning and operations, per a new report.
Urban Design for Planners 1: Software Tools
This six-course series explores essential urban design concepts using open source software and equips planners with the tools they need to participate fully in the urban design process.
Planning for Universal Design
Learn the tools for implementing Universal Design in planning regulations.
planning NEXT
Appalachian Highlands Housing Partners
Gallatin County Department of Planning & Community Development
Mpact (founded as Rail~Volution)
City of Camden Redevelopment Agency
City of Astoria
City of Portland
City of Laramie