Great Barrier Reef Faces Fifth Mass Coral Bleaching Event

The Great Barrier Reef is experiencing its fifth mass coral bleaching event in eight years, with aerial surveys confirming widespread bleaching across two-thirds of the reef. The bleaching is driven by global heating and an El Niño climate pattern, with ocean temperatures at record highs. Scientists are concerned about the potential for significant coral mortality, particularly in the reef's southern areas, and are calling for increased efforts to address climate change and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.