Underwater Currents

in the Mexican Caribbean

Dangerous up-swelling or down-swelling currents can drive divers into rapid, dangerous ascents or descents that may precipitate DCI, CAGE, or barotrauma. Divers can also be swept away and drown. Follow your divemaster’s advice and stay clear of waters with turbulent surface signs of strong undercurrents. If you do get caught in an undercurrent do not panic. Try to avoid directly swimming against the current and try to swim out at an angle. If you get caught in a down current drop your weight belt and inflate your buoyancy compensator. If you get out from the current and start rising too fast spread out your arms and legs to slow your ascent. The Mexican Caribbean currents are known to be dangerous, especially in the late summer months of hurricane season. The Punta Tunich dive site, out of Cozumel, is known for its sporadic strong currents.