Edge-Accelerated Currents — Currents often strengthen along drop-off edges.

Depth Perception Distortion — Visual contrast can distort perceived depth.

Terrain-Induced Descent — Divers may unintentionally follow terrain downward.

Unstable Visual Ascents — Relying on wall visuals can destabilise ascents.

Gradual Depth Creep — Lack of visual bottom reference can cause unnoticed descent.

Unsignalled Downcurrents — Downcurrents can form without visible indicators.

Hidden Depth Variations — Complex reef topography can conceal depth changes, leading to unintended profile variations.

Distraction from Marine Activity — High fish activity can distract divers and delay depth or gas awareness.

Rapid Surge Direction Changes — Surge near reef structures can reverse direction quickly, pushing divers sideways into unexpected areas.

Situational Awareness Loss — Divers may fixate on sharks and lose depth or position awareness.

Subtle Behavioural Shifts — Changes in shark behaviour may be missed without active observation.

Blue-Water Reference Loss — Lack of visual references increases ascent and descent instability.

Eddy Pull-Off Zones — Eddies behind structures can pull divers away from the main drift line.

Delayed Surface Pickup — Strong current can exceed surface tracking assumptions, delaying boat pickup.

Vertical Current Shear — Currents may vary by depth, causing vertical separation even when divers stay together.

Gradual Narcosis Onset — Narcosis may develop slowly, making self-assessment unreliable.

Task Fixation at Depth — Cognitive narrowing at depth can reduce awareness of time and ascent rate.

Increased Gas Density Breathing Load — Higher gas density at depth increases work of breathing.