Dr. Thon, a marine scientist, warns of an impending major "coral bleaching" event and urges preparations for the most severe period of Thailand's seas.
2 Jul 2026 GMT+7 Assistant Professor Dr. Thon Thamrongnawasawat A marine scientist and faculty member in the Department of Marine Science, Faculty of Fisheries, Kasetsart University, posted a message on Facebook.Thon ThamrongnawasawatHe stated that a graphic from NOAA shows a frightening threat gradually advancing. Are we ready? It is a coral bleaching alert map divided into five levels.
The severe purple color hasn't been seen for a long time, but it is now appearing in the central Pacific Ocean. Coral bleaching is directly linked to warm sea temperatures. The world has only just entered El Niño less than a month ago, yet purple is already appearing. I dread to imagine how intense it will be when El Niño peaks and becomes a super El Niño between November and January.
Based on the image, I can say that the red and purple colors will gradually move into Southeast Asia, indicating a major coral bleaching event is coming. There are already scattered bleaching reports, but we still have six months before the real event arrives.
If trends continue, February to June next year will be the harshest period for Thailand's seas. Currently, the Faculty of Fisheries is rushing to respond in various areas, including coral reefs and seagrass beds under study, and brainstorming ways to help corals and seagrass if extreme heat occurs.
Although the areas are small, efforts will be made as much as possible. Extremely warm sea water affects not only ecosystems but also reduces coastal marine species and causes problems in aquaculture.
This extends to tourism, where some coral reef sites may need to be closed for restoration. How this will be managed remains a question.
Plans A through Z must be prepared carefully. Signals show this attack will be severe.
Red Alert is approaching.
Information from FacebookThon Thamrongnawasawat