Coral bleaching occurs naturally when waters warm significantly, including in 2016 in the Keys. But Lewis said the current situation is urgent for coral, vital to Florida's economy, coastal protection and marine life. The corals "don't have a lot of time," she said. "They're literally sitting, stewing in the water out there in these hot, hot temperatures." A string of recent overcast and rainy days helped drop water temperatures slightly. But it will likely be late October or November before the coral samples can be returned to the reef, Lewis said.
AP