Panama Canal reverts to pre-drought regime

The Panama Canal seems to be returning to its pre-drought condition, but the Panama Canal Authority (PCA) anticipates it may not fully regain capacity until early 2025.

The prolonged drought had disrupted passage schedules, leading to severe restrictions for ships traversing the canal connecting the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans for over a year.

Draft allowances and lock usage were gradually reduced to conserve water, with each ship’s passage losing 190,000 cubic meters of water.

Recent rainfall has partially lifted restrictions, relieving shipping companies facing delays or significant costs. At times, up to 100 vessels were anchored for weeks.

On April 15, based on the present and projected level of Gatun Lake, the Panama Canal Authority announced an increase in booking slots in the Panamax locks beginning May 16, 2024. In addition, effective June 1, 2024, an additional slot will become available in the Neopanamax locks.

Furthermore, effective June 15, 2024, the maximum authorized draft allowed to vessels transiting the Neopanamax locks will be 13.71 meters (45.0 feet) TFW. This adjustment ensures safe navigation through the locks and channels while considering the projected level of Gatun Lake and operational requirements.

Danish shipping giant Maersk had explored alternative transport options late last year, utilizing trains to move containers unloaded in Panama City from ships on the OC1 line connecting Australia, New Zealand, and the American east coast.

However, Maersk now plans to revert to the original route as the Panama Canal situation stabilizes with the onset of the rainy season, expected to replenish water levels.

Source: Schuttevaer.nl