The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration reports a mass global bleaching event due to record warm ocean temperatures.

Coral reefs, home to a quarter of marine species and a source of $2.7 trillion in annual economic value, are severely affected.

The current crisis is exacerbated by climate change and an El Nino pattern, leading to prolonged ocean heat harming the reefs.

While corals can recover from bleaching, it requires cooler waters and is impeded by other stressors like cyclones or pollution.

Dead reefs offer some benefits but will degrade over time, underscoring the necessity of immediate action to mitigate damage.

Scientists emphasize the critical need to reduce greenhouse gas emissions as the most effective strategy for coral preservation.

NOAA is investing in research for solutions, but there is a consensus that urgent emission reductions are paramount to reef survival.