If you think that drought in the Panama Canal region doesn’t affect you, think again. According to CBS News, the lakes that supply water to the canal system are nearing their lowest levels due to an unusually dry season. This is causing disruptions in the canal’s traffic capacity, which handles 40% of US container traffic. About two-thirds of the ships passing through the canal are either bound for or coming from the US. As a result of reduced rainfall, the number of ships allowed to pass through daily has been decreased to 32, compared to the usual maximum of 36 to 38.
Panama, known for its heavy rainfalls, is currently experiencing one of the lowest recorded rainfall levels during its rainy season, as reported by CNN. While the canal has faced droughts in the past, the current recurrence and severity are unprecedented. USA Today states that officials have never seen such a severe and recurring drought in the history of the Panama Canal.
According to CBS News, it takes a minimum of 55 million gallons of water to move a single ship through the canal’s lock system, with the water ultimately being released into the ocean. The Panama Canal Authority is exploring various solutions including water retention, constructing additional reservoirs, or diverting nearby rivers. Maersk, the largest user of the canal, warns that if the drought persists, it may lead to delays and increased shipping costs during the holiday season, potentially impacting consumers. (Read more Panama Canal stories.)
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