The Fiji Meteorological Service has issued a Coral Bleaching Outlook – Alert Level 2, warning of heightened stress on coral reefs due to the ongoing marine heatwave affecting Fiji waters.
According to the latest four-week outlook, southern Lau Group waters are likely to remain at Alert Level 2, while most waters in the Northern, Central and Eastern Divisions, including areas along the Coral Coast, are at Alert Level 1.
A Warning remains in place for the Yasawa and Mamanuca groups, with a Watch issued for Rotuma waters.
Alert Level 2 signals a high risk of coral bleaching, with prolonged ocean heat placing severe stress on reef systems.
The Fiji Met Service warns that extended heat stress may result in fish mortality, disruption of marine food chains, reduced reef growth and recovery, and declining reef fish populations.
Coastal communities could also face reduced fish catch, increased coastal erosion and diminished protection from waves and storm surges.
Authorities are urging strengthened reef monitoring and reporting of bleaching observations.
Communities are also advised to minimise local stressors such as overfishing, pollution and anchoring damage, while supporting temporary protection of vulnerable reef areas.
The Fiji Met Service says it will continue monitoring ocean temperature conditions and provide updates as necessary.
