Seven coral bleaching sites have been found in Moo Koh Surin National Park in Phangnga, and up to 70% of the coral fields around Krabi's Phi Phi Island also suffer from bleaching problems, the Department of National Parks and Wildlife Conservation (DMCR) said.
An investigation into the bleaching situation and measurements of the seawater temperatures were conducted on May 12-13. The probe showed that seven coral reef sites in Moo Koh Surin National Park have experienced bleaching of 5–50%.
The worst situation was seen near Koh Torinla, where half of the reefs at depths of two to 10 metres, mostly mushroom coral, were reported to be completely bleached.
The investigation also showed that 30% of reefs at the same depth were reported to have pale colours. The bleaching situation stood at 30% in Ao Tao and Ao Chong Kad, 20% in Ao Trian, 10% in Ao Mae Yai, and 5% in Ao Suthep and Ao Pakkard.
The national park is now closed for the rainy season and will reopen on Oct 15, the park said.
Meanwhile, some areas around Phi Phi Island in Krabi are temporarily closed due to bleaching, which has affected more than 50% of the coral reef sites in the area, said Yuthapong Damsrisuk, chief of Hat Noppharat Thara-Mu Koh Phi Phi National Park.
According to the park, snorkelling and scuba diving are suspended at Kai Island, Khangkhao Bay, Rai Lay Bay, Daeng Island and Yavasum Island.
The marine national park has arranged new snorkelling areas for people to use instead.