Studies are showing the recent long stretches of hotter than normal temperatures in desert locales such as the greater Phoenix are having widespread and significant impacts on peoples’ daily lives. Irfan Batur, a research assistant professor in the School of Sustainable Engineering and the Built Environment, part of the Futon Schools, describes how the extreme heat is causing people to cut back on use of public transit, do less shopping and socializing, and spend more time working at home and sleeping. Researchers says the extreme heat trends should motivate cities and communities to take steps to help people cope with the long stretches of sizzling temperatures.