Rising Heat and Humidity Challenge Data Center Cooling Strategies Globally
Rising Heat and Humidity Challenge Data Center Cooling Strategies Globally
US · Published Jun 16, 2026
A recent study published in Scientific Reports highlights the growing challenges posed by rising global temperatures and humidity levels on the viability of direct air-side free cooling for data centers.
Researchers analyzed historical climate data from 1940 to 2025 using the ERA5 dataset and projected future conditions through 2050 with the Geophysical Fluid Dynamics Laboratory CM4-CM192 model under a high-emissions scenario.

Why It's Important?

The intensifying heat and humidity are expected to severely impact data center operations, particularly in regions like Singapore, Northern Virginia, and the Pearl River Delta. These conditions not only reduce the efficiency of direct air-side free cooling but also increase the risk of hardware failures due to corrosion and moisture-related degradation. The study projects that the number of data centers facing significant operational constraints will rise, with Tier 3 facilities—those exceeding ambient limits for more than half the year—increasing by 9.1% per decade. This could lead to higher operational costs, increased energy consumption, and potential disruptions in digital infrastructure.

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