LAS VEGAS — The worst of Las Vegas’ record summer may be over. But the heat-related death toll continues to rise, with at least 224 deaths where heat was a factor.

Generally, experts say heat deaths are undercounted across the country, and the Clark County coroner’s office can take up to 90 days to declare heat a contributing factor in the majority of deaths. The coroner’s office update on Wednesday brings the total number up from 181, which was announced on Aug. 29.

The number is nearing last year’s total death toll — 309, according to the coroner’s office, and more deaths are likely. The total number of deaths where heat was declared a factor shot up from 169 in 2022 — about an 80% increase when compared with last year, according to coroner’s office data.

Southern Nevada’s summer has been abnormally hot. Las Vegas reached an all-time record of 120 degrees in July, and climate change has contributed to high temperatures up to five times more possible, according to science communications firm Climate Central.

With a high of 102 on Tuesday, it was the 100th day with a high of 100 or more. The same also occurred in 1947.

Cooler temperatures, with a high near 94, are expected Thursday.

An incoming system will bring strong south to southwest winds. The winds combined with single-digit relative humidity will result in critical fire weather conditions across much of Lincoln, Clark and Mohave counties.

Any fires that develop will likely spread rapidly. Outdoor burning is not recommended.

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(Staff writer Marvin Clemons contributed to this story.)

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