Overview

• Coral reefs worldwide are experiencing unprecedented bleaching, with over 54% of reef areas affected.
• Scientists warn that many reefs may not recover, highlighting the urgent need to address climate change.
• The Great Barrier Reef and Caribbean reefs are among the hardest hit, with extensive damage reported.
• Economic impacts are significant, as coral reefs provide $2.7 trillion in goods and services annually.
• NOAA's ongoing surveys suggest this event could surpass previous records in scope and intensity.