Coral Bleaching Risk Calendar
Pick the months and atolls where reefs are least likely to be stressed.
Unique: post-2016 mass-bleaching insight — protected reefs recover differently than unprotected ones.
What this solves
Coral bleaching happens when sea temperature stays above ~30 °C for 4+ weeks. In the Maldives, this is most likely in March–May, before the SW monsoon cools the water. Bleaching isn't a death sentence — corals can recover — but it does mean duller, less photogenic reefs. This tool weights month + protection to predict what you'll actually see.
How to read results
- Low risk: full reef color, healthy fish, ideal for photography.
- Medium risk: some pale tips, otherwise healthy; common at most times of year.
- High risk: visible bleaching patches; choose protected reefs.
- Severe: only during El Niño years; check NOAA coral reef watch.
Limitations
Bleaching is a function of real-time sea temperature, not just climatology. During El Niño years (e.g., 2016, 2024), bleaching can occur even in cooler months. Check NOAA Coral Reef Watch before booking if reef health is critical.
FAQ
Will I see dead coral?
In the Maldives today, almost no — 2016 bleaching killed some, but most reefs recovered by 2019–2022. A few reefs near Malé remain partially damaged.
When is the reef most colorful?
December–February (NE monsoon) — coolest water, lowest bleaching risk, and visibility is excellent.
About
Bleaching probability uses NOAA DHW thresholds and Maldives Marine Research Institute long-term monitoring data.
Privacy
Local only.
Disclaimer
Coral bleaching is climate-driven and unpredictable beyond climatology.