Florida's Devastating Ocean Heat Wave Threatens Marine Life and Coral Reefs

Ocean temperatures off the coast of Florida are reaching unprecedented levels, with waters currently "strikingly warm" and up to 7 degrees Fahrenheit above normal. This heat wave poses a significant threat to marine life, particularly coral reefs, which are likely to experience bleaching. The Florida Reef Tract has already lost about 90% of its live coral cover since the 1980s. The warming is attributed to a combination of factors, including the abnormal position of the Bermuda high and human-caused climate change. The impacts of ocean warming extend beyond marine life, affecting coastal communities, economies, and contributing to the intensity of hurricanes. The changes in temperature will have lasting impacts on marine biodiversity and the millions of people living in coastal areas worldwide.