Australia's Great Barrier Reef damaged by bleaching

US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration announced on Monday that the world is currently undergoing its second major coral bleaching event in a decade, with reef systems spanning from Australia to Florida perilously close to collapse after enduring months of unprecedented ocean heat.
The repercussions of coral bleaching extend widely, impacting not only ocean health but also human livelihoods, food security, and local economies. While severe or prolonged heat stress can result in coral mortality, there remains hope for recovery if temperatures decrease and other stressors like overfishing and pollution are mitigated.