A quarter of global data centers operate where water demand outstrips supply for at least a month annually.

Researchers mapped these facilities against available water resources, revealing that many are situated in areas already facing severe water stress. Under future climate projections, this problem could worsen, with up to one-third of all data centers potentially located in regions experiencing chronic water shortages.

This means that as the demand for digital services grows, so does the strain on limited water supplies, posing a significant risk to both the environment and the reliability of these critical infrastructure hubs.

The long-term vulnerability is clear: as climate change exacerbates water scarcity, data centers may face operational disruptions or even shutdowns if they cannot secure sufficient water resources.

What is the long-term climate outlook for this region?

As climate models predict increased aridity in many regions, data center operators must consider relocating facilities to areas with more reliable water supplies or invest heavily in water conservation technologies. The future of these centers hinges on their ability to adapt to changing environmental conditions.

The outlook is grim without significant adaptation measures.