Low humidity in a data center can cause which of the following problems?

Heat in a data center is generated by the thermal output of IT equipment and is managed through cooling airflow, not caused by changes in humidity level.

Corrosion of metal contacts and PCB traces results from high humidity combined with airborne contaminants, the opposite of a low-humidity environment.

When relative humidity falls below recommended thresholds (typically 40-45%), the air lacks sufficient moisture to bleed off electrostatic charges that accumulate on personnel, equipment, and surfaces. This leads to electrostatic discharge (ESD) events that can instantly damage or destroy semiconductor components such as CPUs, memory modules, and storage controllers. Data centers maintain controlled humidity ranges specifically to minimize ESD risk alongside grounding straps and anti-static flooring.

Airborne contamination from dust and particulates is controlled through air filtration and positive pressure systems, and is not a direct consequence of low humidity.