Ningaloo Reef Faces Severe Coral Bleaching Linked to Marine Heatwave

Experts warn of widespread coral death and ecological harm as ocean temperatures rise above average near Western Australia’s iconic reef.

West Australian Environment Minister Reece Whitby has requested an urgent briefing to assess the extent of coral bleaching at Ningaloo Reef, a World Heritage Site.
The bleaching event has been attributed to ocean temperatures 2–3°C above the long-term average, with concerns that conditions could worsen in the coming months.
Conservationists describe the bleaching as a 'red-alert moment,' emphasizing the potential for significant coral death and long-term damage to the reef's ecosystem.
The bleaching follows a recent marine heatwave that caused a mass fish kill in the region, raising alarms about climate change’s impact on marine environments.
Local tourism and fishing industries, which rely on a healthy reef, face economic risks, while traditional owners and scientists express cautious hope for coral recovery if temperatures cool.