Cozumel's coral reefs may experience bleaching this year as a result of the intense heat predicted for the region. Divers are being urged to monitor any changes in the reefs and report them to the National Commission of Protected Natural Areas (Conanp).

This warning comes from César Cepeda Escamilla, a local nautical service entrepreneur and member of the Association of Operators of Aquatic Activities and Tourism (ANOAAT) in Cozumel. In a recent interview, Escamilla noted that Cozumel has already seen two instances of coral bleaching in past years. The first incident was due to a disease that decimated 60 percent of the hard corals, while the second was a result of global warming.

Escamilla also pointed out that other parts of the world have experienced coral bleaching outbreaks due to global warming. He suggested that a similar event could happen in Cozumel during this summer season.

Cozumel is known as one of the Caribbean destinations with healthy and well-preserved reefs, making it a popular spot among divers. Escamilla emphasized the importance of preparedness on the part of authorities to address this potential threat to the reefs in this part of the Caribbean.