Source: Maritime Executive
Summary
The Panama Canal Authority forecasted a water shortage due to a severe drought in the Gatun Lake watershed. Canal officials are taking precautionary measures to conserve water, such as reducing the maximum draft for Neopanamax vessels and implementing water-saving measures at locks. Vessel traffic continues to increase, with 13,000 vessels passing through the canal in 2022.
Our Reading
The look feels familiar.
A repeat of 2015’s El Niño drought, when the canal’s water levels dropped to historic lows. The canal’s administrators are once again forced to take drastic measures. Neopanamax vessels are being restricted, and water-saving measures are being implemented. The cycle of drought and conservation continues.
Author: Evan Null
