MD-83
Flight Crew Air Transport Pilot (ATP); Flight Crew Multiengine; Flight Crew Instrument
Situational Awareness
Aircraft Equipment Problem Critical; Inflight Event / Encounter Other / Unknown
Flight Crew Overcame Equipment Problem
Aircraft
While in cruise flight at FL280; the EOAP (Electronic Overhead Annuciator Panel) 'Pressurization flow' light illuminated. We noted the cabin climbing at a rate of 500-1000 fpm. We completed the QRH procedure with no change to the issue. We [notified ATC] and descended immediately to 10;000 ft. At no point did the cabin altitude exceed 7;000 ft. Upon reaching lower altitudes the annunciator light extinguished and the rest of the flight was normal. At the time of the mechanical issue; we were in IMC. Engine and airfoil anti-icing was on.
During cruise flight at FL280; approximately 200nm northeast of ZZZ with engine and airfoil anti-ice on; the pressurization flow light illuminated. Both a/c (Air Conditioning) packs indicated normal operation and the outflow valve was fully closed. We performed the QRH procedure and the cabin continued to climb at 500-1000 feet per minute. We [notified ATC] and executed a rapid descent toward 10;000 ft. As we descended through approximately 12;000 ft; the cabin pressure stabilized.  We canceled the emergency and resumed the normal arrival into ZZZ. The maximum cabin altitude was approximately 7;000 ft.
MD83 Flight crew reported encountering loss of pressurization in cruise.