What should divers be aware of in terms of silty environments?

In silty environments, divers should be particularly aware that these conditions can significantly lead to limited visibility. When divers stir up silt on the bottom, it can become suspended in the water column, drastically reducing how far one can see. This restricted visibility can pose numerous hazards during a dive, such as difficulty in navigation, the inability to locate team members or exit points, and an increased risk of disorientation.

Understanding that silt can impact visibility helps divers prepare properly before entering such environments, including employing appropriate techniques to minimize disturbance of the substrate and ensuring that they remain vigilant about their surroundings. This knowledge is crucial for maintaining safety and effective communication among dive team members in environments where visibility can quickly change.