Overview

• On July 27 divers aged 56 and 53 experienced a medical crisis at around 60 m depth that prompted a rapid uncontrolled ascent
• Both developed critical decompression sickness marked by nitrogen bubbles forming in their tissues and bloodstream
• A rescue helicopter evacuated the more seriously injured diver to a hyperbaric chamber in Halle for urgent decompression therapy
• The other diver, who exhibited milder symptoms, was transported by ambulance to a clinic in Stade for treatment
• Authorities have opened an investigation as Kreidesee’s extreme depth, clear visibility and limited regional hyperbaric capacity continue to raise safety concerns