7.Recently the tens of thousands of fish have died off Northwestern Australia due to a large and long-lasting marine heatwave.
o The heatwave began in September 2024 with ocean temperatures 3°C higher than usual off Broome.
o More than 90% of heat trapped by greenhouse gases is absorbed by the oceans.
o Fish kill in Karratha is the most visible sign of distress.
o Bleaching observed in Kimberley coral reefs.
o Corals at Ningaloo Reef experiencing heat stress.
o Heatwave affecting the Gascoyne region (Carnarvon-Exmouth), likely spreading further south.
o Currently, 28% of the world’s oceans are experiencing heatwave conditions.
o It amplify many risks, such as health-related or economic risks, including increased human mortality, drought and water quality, wildfire and smoke, power shortages and agricultural losses.