NPR's 2-year search for the truth about deaths from heat

NPR | By Alejandra Borunda

Published August 31, 2026 at 3:29 PM CDT

An investigation from NPR and Boston University finds that heat kills thousands of Americans every year. But official numbers radically undercount heat deaths.

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All Things Considered

Alejandra Borunda

Alejandra Borunda (she/her) is a reporter on NPR's Climate Desk.

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