Panama's Gatun Lake level falls, prompting canal draft restrictions
Time：2015-08-18
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From September 8, the maximum permitted transit draft for the Panama Canal will be 11.89 metres (39 feet) in tropical fresh water (TFW).
Canal authorities said they have given advanced notice to enable vessels loading in distant ports to adjust cargo loading plans to comply with the restriction, reported Inchcape Shipping Services (ISS).
The new restrictions also state that vessels loaded prior to August 11 to a draft over 11.89 metres (39 feet) will be waived for transit, subject to safety considerations. However, vessels loaded on or after August 11 must comply with the restrictions and may be required to trim or offload cargo, depending on the level of Gatun Lake at the time of transit.
Ships may load to drafts up to 12.04 metres (39.5 feet) after 11 August provided that they transit prior to September 8.