Bubble Trapping Under Overhangs — Rock overhangs can trap exhaled bubbles, reducing visibility and causing disorientation.

Reflected Surge Patterns — Surge reflecting off rock faces can create irregular and unpredictable water movement.

Current Funnel Effect — Narrow gaps between rocks can accelerate water flow unexpectedly.

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.

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.

Thermocline Buoyancy Shift — Sharp thermoclines can cause sudden buoyancy changes.

Instant Visibility Collapse — Sediment disturbance can eliminate visibility immediately.

Late Detection of Structures — Submerged structures may only appear at very close range.

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.