Alarming coral bleaching hits Australia's Ningaloo Reef due to a prolonged marine heatwave.

Alarming levels of coral bleaching have been observed off Australia's western coast, affecting the Ningaloo Reef, a world heritage site known for its vibrant corals and whale sharks. Scientists attribute the bleaching to a months-long marine heatwave, with ocean temperatures being up to three degrees warmer than average. This event may be the worst mass bleaching since 2011, as warm waters cause corals to expel their colorful algae, potentially leading to their death.