Warm Waters Cause Worldwide Coral Bleaching; V.I. Could Face Another Onslaught

Prolonged, exceptionally warm temperatures have caused the fourth ever global coral bleaching event — a likely precursor to yet more massive loss of the world’s coral reefs.

The announcement came as a joint statement Monday from The International Coral Reef Initiative and the U.S. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.

Given reports over the last few months of bleaching events in various regions — including in Virgin Islands waters — the report was not totally surprising, but nevertheless its seriousness made headlines across the country.

Even more concerning than the statement about the current bleaching status, is the prediction that there is more to come this summer, as sea water temperatures continue to rise.