Panama Canal reduces vessel transits due to El Niño drought

The Panama Canal Authority is implementing a phased reduction in daily vessel transits due to a severe drought driven by the El Niño phenomenon. Starting September 3, the maximum number of daily transits will decrease from 36 to 34, followed by a further reduction to 32 starting September 15.

This measure is a response to dangerously low water levels in the artificial lakes that supply the canal. Rainfall between May and August was 34 percent below normal levels. To maintain long-term viability, authorities have already restricted the maximum draft for large vessels and warned of further restrictions if precipitation does not increase.

The canal is a critical corridor for global commerce, handling 5 percent of maritime trade and nearly 40 percent of container shipments from the United States. Major users include China, Japan, South Korea, Chile, and the United States. Beyond shipping, the water shortage affects local stability, as the reservoirs provide drinking water for approximately half of Panama’s 4.2 million residents.