Coral bleaching alert level 5

Coral reefs around Tobago are now under severe threat as the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has issued a Level 5 coral bleaching alert due to rising sea temperatures. According to the newly modified bleaching alert levels by NOAA Coral Reef Watch, the dark purple band extending from Puerto Rico down to Trinidad and Tobago indicates that these regions are among the hardest hit by the current marine heatwave. A Level 5 alert signifies a significant risk of near-total coral mortality, with over 80% of corals potentially dying. This alarming situation poses a severe threat to marine ecosystems, as coral reefs are essential for biodiversity and coastal protection. The Institute of Marine Affairs (IMA) is urging all marine stakeholders to report incidents of coral bleaching, especially from key reefs in Buccoo, Coral Gardens, Castara, Flying Reef, and around Speyside. To date, they have received thirty reports. The image shows current conditions at the Booby Island Reef in Charlotteville. The IMA will also conduct coral reef surveys in the third week of November and plans to present its findings to the public shortly afterwards.