A significant coral bleaching event has occurred, with reports indicating that over 50% of reefs were damaged, although some sources suggest the damage could be even more extensive, affecting up to 80% of the world's reefs. The event is considered the worst on record, with various regions, including western australia and the great barrier reef, being severely impacted. The extent of the damage is still being assessed, with multiple organizations and surveys confirming a sharp decline in the health of coral reefs worldwide.