NowGazer

A new report from the U.S. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) confirms that 84% of the world’s coral reefs are now affected by bleaching due to marine heatwaves driven by climate change.

This ongoing event, now in its second year, is being described as the worst in recorded history. Areas in the Caribbean, Indo-Pacific, and the Great Barrier Reef are experiencing mass coral mortality.

Scientists warn this could devastate marine biodiversity and displace millions who rely on reefs for food, income, and coastal protection. “Corals are the canaries of the ocean,” says marine biologist Dr. Camille Huang. “This is not just a reef problem. It’s a global crisis.”

Governments are being urged to accelerate carbon reduction and marine conservation policies before the damage becomes irreversible.