# Great Barrier Reef at risk of 'collapse' Scientists warn of El Niño's impacts - **Source:** [Phys.org - latest science and technology news stories](https://brifing.si/source/8b0f98da-d179-4c93-871f-7ac460bf9c61) - **Published:** 2026-07-21 - **Topic:** [Business](https://brifing.si/c/business) - **Original article:** - **On Brifing:** https://brifing.si/s/c389c1da-0850-4316-98fe-00b9bded3926 ## The state of the Great Barrier Reef Australia's Great Barrier Reef is at very high risk of extreme and widespread bleaching due to this year's El Niño weather phenomenon. Scientists warn that the reef is in danger of 'ecosystem collapse'. ## The effects of El Niño El Niño is a climate event that significantly impacts global weather conditions. This year's El Niño is causing extreme temperature rises and increased water temperatures in the Great Barrier Reef. ## What is extreme bleaching? Extreme bleaching occurs when corals lose their color and turn white due to stress. This condition seriously threatens coral health and can lead to ecosystem collapse. ## Scientists' warnings Scientists are highlighting the dangers facing the Great Barrier Reef. They emphasize the urgent need for measures to protect the reef. ## The ecological importance of the reef The Great Barrier Reef is the world's largest coral reef system and home to thousands of marine species. Its collapse would be a significant loss for the global ecosystem. ## Measures for the future Scientists stress the need to combat climate change and increase local conservation efforts to protect the reef. Without urgent action, the reef could suffer irreversible damage. ## Sources covering this story - https://phys.org/news/2026-07-great-barrier-reef-collapse-scientists.html — --- _Summary written by Brifing from the original reporting. Copyright in the original article belongs to its publisher; read the full piece at the link above._