The Panama Canal Authority (ACP) has reduced the maximum draft for ships transiting the Neopanamax locks due to an unusually low amount of rain in December.
It will reduced to 49 feet, or 14.94 meters, as of 11 February, or by one foot, or by 30 centimetres from the last maximum restriction implemented in June last year.
“Precipitation registered in the Panama Canal watershed during December 2018 was about 90% below the historical average, causing water levels in Gatun and Madden Lakes to drop below the expected levels for this time of the year,” the ACP said.
“As a result, the Panama Canal has deemed it necessary to implement water conservation measures to delay implementation of seasonal draft adjustments and to minimize the adverse effect that these may have on our customers.”
Vessels arriving with drafts over 49 feet may be allowed to transit past this date depending on the actual level of Gatun Lake at the time of transit. Otherwise, they will be required to trim or off-load cargo to transit, the ACP added.
In addition to the new draft restrictions, the ACP said it would announce draft adjustments for the Neopanamax locks in 30-centimeter decrements at a time during the dry season, with at least four weeks’ notice.
