A mysterious humming noise has been reported in neighborhoods across several US states, rattling homes and leaving residents struggling to sleep.
The latest reports come from Vineland, New Jersey, where locals say the sound began after construction started on a massive 2.5-million-square-foot data center, though officials have not confirmed a direct link.
Residents say the constant noise is disrupting daily life. ‘That is not construction, and that monstrosity is only partially built,’ Scott Montgomery told ABC 6. ‘It is infringing on our peace of mind and our tranquility.’
Similar complaints have surfaced in parts of Virginia, home to hundreds of data centers, and in Connecticut earlier this year, though officials in those areas have yet to identify a confirmed source.
Experts noted that data centers can produce continuous low-frequency humming caused by powerful cooling systems and electrical equipment operating around the clock.
Thousands of servers generate intense heat, requiring large fans and chillers that can produce noise levels between 55 and 85 decibels, often described as a low-pitched roar capable of traveling long distances.
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‘It’s not even fully built yet. That’s the scary part,’ Montgomery added.
‘If it sounds like this now, what’s it going to be like when everything’s up and running?’
Cumberland County Department of Health has acknowledged the noise concerns in the New Jersey town, noting it does not play a role in planning, zoning, or approving construction projects.
The agency added that it will investigate the construction site to determine if it is the source of the noise.
‘If our inspectors find that noise levels are higher than those allowed under the code, we follow the enforcement guidelines under which a penalty may be issued if compliance is not obtained within a certain timeframe,’ the agency shared on Facebook.
‘While the Cumberland County Department of Health does not have the legal authority to shut down a facility, we do work collaboratively with those involved to resolve any confirmed violations of the Noise Control Act.’
The 2.4 million-square-foot data center is being built on South Lincoln Avenue and is owned by the company Data One.
In a statement, the company said the facility is complying with local regulations.
‘Our site is operating in full compliance with Vineland City noise ordinance limits,’ the company said. ‘We will continue deploying sound reduction measures to minimize any impact on our neighbors.’
While authorities have yet to blame the data center for the noise, locals are sure it is the source.
