The Panama Canal Authority (ACP) increased the maximum allowable draft for vessels transiting the neopanamax locks on June 13.
The maximum authorized draft for vessels transiting these locks was set at 14.94 meters tropical fresh water (TFW).
The ACP informed that vessels arriving with drafts over 14.94 meters TFW may be allowed to transit depending on the actual level of Gatun Lake at the time of transit.
Otherwise, they will be required to trim or off-load cargo in order to be allowed to transit.
The changes were made following the recent rainfall in the canal watershed, which increased the levels of Gatun and Alhajuela Lakes considerably in the preceding days.
The ACP will continue to monitor the level of Gatun Lake in order to announce any future draft modifications in a timely manner.
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