A record-breaking 84% of the world's coral reefs are experiencing severe bleaching due to warming oceans, surpassing the previous record of 2014-17. This is the fourth global bleaching event since 1998, and scientists warn that the current crisis, linked to record-high ocean temperatures, may be unprecedented. Coral bleaching threatens biodiversity, seafood production, tourism, and coastal protection. While conservation efforts are underway, experts emphasize the urgent need to reduce greenhouse gas emissions to address the root cause of climate change and prevent further reef devastation.

Prepared by Olivia Bennett and reviewed by editorial team.