The uncontrolled entry of seawater into a tank or compartment as a result of damage.
Flooding of the car decks has been acknowledged as the most dangerous problem for a ro-ro vessel.
- Progressive flooding – Ingress of water to compartments assumed to be intact. Such additional flooding may occur through internal openings or through non-watertight external openings and pipes if they are located below the waterline after damage. The possibility of progressive flooding through ballast piping passing through the assumed extent of damage, where positive action valves are not fitted to the ballast system at the open ends of the pipes in the tanks served, is to be considered.