Five Italian nationals from Genoa University died while diving in the Maldives, during an exploration of underwater caves off Alimathaa in Vaavu Atoll, at depths exceeding 160 feet, with a high-risk search and recovery operation underway.

Authorities are considering multiple possible causes, including oxygen tank issues, weather, sudden thermals, or loss of orientation, but no definitive cause has been established yet.

The Italian embassy is in contact with the families to provide support and aid in the aftermath.

Some reporting speculates about oxygen toxicity as a potential factor, linked to breathing oxygen at high pressure for extended periods.

The broader travel and adventure-tourism sector is increasing emphasis on risk awareness, with expected adjustments to advisory messaging, insurance frameworks, and safety standards.

Current weather conditions may delay recovery efforts, but operations are expected to resume once conditions improve.

Local weather at the time included severe conditions with winds up to 30 mph and a yellow warning in place.

The area was under a yellow weather warning due to rough seas when the incident occurred.

The incident was reported in mid-May, with ongoing investigations and updates to come.

The dive appears linked to a scientific-tourist excursion rather than the university’s official research program.

A family member publicly questions potential factors while asserting no evidence of reckless conduct by the divers.

Personal notes from a diver indicate last messages about family, underscoring the human impact of the tragedy.