en.Wedoany.com Reported - The Panama Canal Authority announced that it will reduce the maximum vessel draft for the neo-Panamax locks starting August 26, with a further reduction to take effect on September 3.

In a notice to the shipping community, the Panama Canal Authority stated that the current draft for the neo-Panamax locks is 15.09 meters, a standard that has been in effect since July 1. Starting August 26, the maximum authorized draft will be reduced to 14.63 meters; effective September 3, it will be further adjusted to 14.48 meters.

The Authority indicated that this draft adjustment does not involve changes to the maximum daily number of transiting vessels, which remains at approximately 38. This adjustment is part of the water resource management and conservation measures implemented since December 2025 in preparation for the 2026 dry season.

In the notice, the Authority stated that this measure was developed based on the current water levels of Gatun Lake and forecasts for the coming weeks, and is a component of the water resource management and operational strategies implemented by this interoceanic waterway to ensure operational sustainability.

Although the draft reduction does not affect the number of transiting vessels, the shipping industry remains concerned about a recurrence of the El Niño phenomenon seen in 2023 and 2024. In early 2024, due to drought restrictions, the maximum daily number of transiting vessels through the Panama Canal was reduced to between 18 and 22.

The measures announced this time represent the fourth and fifth draft adjustments declared by the Panama Canal. The Authority stated that these adjustments are based on lessons learned during the 2023-2024 period, as well as analysis of hydrological data and historical records supporting operational decisions.