The recent rainfall in the Canal watershed has increased the levels of Gatun and Alhajuela Lakes considerably in the past few days. As such, effective from 13 June, the maximum authorized draft for vessels transiting the Neopanamax locks is 14.94 meters (49.0 feet) Tropical Fresh Water (TFW), the Panama Canal Authority informed.
Vessels arriving with drafts over 14.94 meters (49.0 feet) TFW may be allowed to transit depending on the actual level of Gatun Lake at the time of transit, the ACP added. Otherwise, they will be required to trim or off-load cargo in order to be allowed to transit.
In early May, the Authority had announced again an increase of the maximum allowable beam for commercial and non-commercial vessels passing through the Neopanamax Locks, to 14.63m (48.0 feet) Tropical Fresh Water (TFW).
The maximum authorized transit draft is the deepest point of immersion in TFW permitted for a particular vessel in Gatun Lake. Water density of Gatun Lake is 0.9954 at 29.4°C (85°F). Vessels shall arrive at Canal waters with no list. The ACP will continue to monitor the level
