What kind of light pattern may indicate a vessel in distress?

A vessel in distress may use flashing patterns that are non-standard for navigation to signal its need for assistance. This method is widely recognized as a distress signal because irregular or unusual light patterns can immediately draw attention and signal urgency to nearby vessels or aircraft. The intention behind this choice is to ensure that the pattern stands out significantly from typical navigational lights, which usually follow consistent color and flashing sequences.

In contrast, common navigational lights like a solid white light or continuous yellow light do not convey an emergency status; they serve specific functions in marine navigation. Similarly, a series of alternating colors could potentially mimic other navigational signals and might not be distinctly recognizable as a distress signal. Therefore, the use of non-standard flashing patterns is critical for effectively conveying the message of distress and prompting an appropriate response from those nearby.