A study found AI data centres increase surrounding land surface temperatures by about 2°C, creating localized “data heat island” effects. Researchers analyzed satellite temperature data to measure environmental impact. The study estimated that more than 340 million people could be affected by rising temperatures near AI infrastructure. The increase is linked to growing energy demand and heat dissipation from AI data centres. Researchers warned that rapid expansion of AI infrastructure may influence local climates and highlighted the need for sustainable planning for future AI development.