Panama Canal Authority announces draft restrictions to transiting vessels

The Panama Canal Authority (ACP) has issued an Advisory to Shipping, which sets a draft restriction for all shipping agents, owners and operators working with the Canal, the ACP press release said. These temporary and preventive measures will be taken due to an anticipated climatic variability event related to El Niño, a climate phenomenon resulting in periodic warming of the tropical Pacific Ocean. When this occurs, El Niño changes the pattern of rainfall in many regions of the planet. In this case, it has triggered a drought in the Canal Watershed, causing the water levels of Gatun and Alhajuela Lakes to fall substantially below their average for this time of year.

The Advisory sets the maximum draft at 11.89 meters (39.0 feet) Tropical Fresh Water (TFW), effective April 18, 2016. The maximum authorized transit draft is defined as the deepest point of TFW immersion for each specific vessel in Gatun Lake. These measures are being taken to ensure the continuous and safe operation of the Canal during this period.

Vessels loaded to drafts over 11.89 meters (39.0 feet) prior to or on March 21, will have their draft restriction waived for transit, subject to safety considerations. Vessels loaded after March 21 shall comply with the new draft limitation.

Draft restrictions will be implemented in 15-centimeter (six-inch) decrements at a time, with each restriction announced at least four weeks in advance.

The Panama Canal will continue to monitor and manage the water levels. Should further draft restrictions be confirmed, notice will be given at least four weeks in advance to allow time for customers for proper planning.

The Panama Canal is experienced in water resource management and has responded to similar situations requiring preventative adjustments of operations in the past. The most recent El Niño phenomenon involving similar conditions took place during the 1997-1998 season. The Canal will continue to provide information on the measures being taken and to closely monitor the situation to ensure the security and efficiency of its services.

About the Panama Canal
The Panama Canal is run by an autonomous agency of the Government of Panama in charge of managing, operating and maintaining the Panama Canal. The operation of the Panama Canal Authority (ACP) is based on its organic law and the regulations approved by its Board of Directors.