The Panama Canal Authority will introduce adjustments as part of its water management strategy and in light of the potential development of an El Niño phenomenon in the watershed in the coming months.
Based on current and projected water levels at Gatun Lake, the authority will reduce the maximum authorised draft for vessels using the Neopanamax Locks.
Effective 24 July 2026, the limit will be set at 14.94 metres (49.0 feet) Tropical Fresh Water (TFW).
A further adjustment will take effect on 15 August 2026, when the maximum authorised draft will be reduced to 14.78 metres (48.5 feet) TFW.
Separately, dry chamber maintenance is scheduled for the West Lane of Gatun Locks from 21 to 22 July 2026. During this period, the East Lane will remain in service, although lockages will require additional time.
As a result of the maintenance work, the number of available slots in the Panamax Locks will be reduced, says the Canal.
Earlier in June, the Panama Canal Authority had also announced a reduction in the maximum authorised draft for vessels using the Neopanamax Locks, lowering the limit to 15.09 metres (49.5 feet) TFW from 3 July 2026.
The updated limits are intended to conserve water in Lake Gatun and help mitigate the impact on vessel transits should El Niño develop as forecast.
