Panama Canal to reduce Neopanamax draft limit amid El Niño concerns

The Panama Canal Authority (ACP) said the adjustment aims to ensure safe and reliable operation of the canal.

IMAGE: The Atlantic entrance to the Panama Canal. Getty Images.

Effective 3 July, vessels transiting the Neopanamax Locks will be permitted a maximum draft of 15.09 metres (49.5 feet) Tropical Fresh Water (TFW), based on present and forecast water levels in Gatun Lake over the coming weeks.

The ACP has announced this reduction in the maximum authorised draft as it seeks to safeguard canal operations under current hydrological conditions.

The authority noted that the measure takes into account the potential development of an El Niño weather pattern over the Panama Canal watershed in the months ahead.

The canal authority said it will continue to closely monitor lake levels and hydrological projections and will implement further operational adjustments if necessary.

By Gautamee Hazarika

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