Cold weather and data centres increase US greenhouse gas emissions

A technician adjusts equipment inside a data centre, surrounded by rows of servers, as cold weather drives up energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions.

According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration, energy consumption in the residential and commercial sectors surged by approximately 15% during the cold snap in late December 2022. This spike in energy usage coincided with a rise in emissions, as many states relied on fossil fuels to meet the increased demand. Moreover, the proliferation of data … Read more

Cold weather increases greenhouse gas emissions from data centres in the US

A technician adjusts equipment inside a data centre as cold weather drives up energy demands and greenhouse gas emissions.

The reliance on fossil fuels for electricity generation in many regions exacerbates the situation. As temperatures fall, utilities often turn to natural gas and coal to meet the heightened demand, resulting in a spike in greenhouse gas emissions. A report from the Environmental Protection Agency indicates that emissions from the power sector increased by 5% … Read more

Five tips to stay warm during cold weather

A group of people bundled in winter clothing huddle together on a city street, seeking warmth as snowflakes gently fall around them.

Cold weather poses serious risks, including hypothermia and frostbite, particularly for the elderly, homeless individuals, and those with limited access to heating resources. Recent reports have highlighted the need for community support systems to ensure that everyone has access to adequate warmth during these frigid months, making it essential to learn effective strategies to protect … Read more

Hospital flu cases decline as NHS prepares for cold weather

A healthcare worker checks a patient's temperature in a hospital room as flu cases decline amid preparations for colder weather.

The NHS has issued a cold weather alert as temperatures are expected to fall sharply, raising concerns about potential spikes in other illnesses, such as respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and pneumonia. Health officials emphasize the importance of remaining vigilant, especially among vulnerable populations such as the elderly and those with pre-existing health conditions. To learn … Read more