July 10, 2026
The Panama Canal Authority (ACP) issued a notice advising stakeholders that considering the potential development of an El Ni�o phenomenon over the watershed in the upcoming months, the ACP will implement a draft reduction at the Neopanamax Locks:
Advisory To Shipping No. A-22-2026
July 1, 2026
TO: All Shipping Agents, Owners, and Operators
SUBJECT: Draft adjustment in the Neopanamax Locks
As part of the Panama Canal Authority's (ACP) water management strategy to ensure the safe, reliable, and sustainable operation of the Canal under current hydrological conditions and considering the potential development of an El Ni�o phenomenon over the watershed in the upcoming months, the ACP will implement a draft reduction at the Neopanamax Locks. The ACP will continue to closely monitor lake levels and hydrological projections and will announce any additional operational adjustments as deemed necessary.
Accordingly, based on present and projected Gatun Lake levels for the upcoming weeks, the ACP announces that, effective July 24, 2026, the maximum authorized draft for vessels transiting the Neopanamax Locks will be 14.94 meters (49.0 feet) in Tropical Fresh Water (TFW). In addition, effective August 15, 2026, the maximum authorized draft will be adjusted to 14.78 meters (48.5 feet) TFW.
The ACP appreciates the continued understanding and cooperation of the maritime community.
For any further inquiries regarding these rules, please contact: operationservices@pancanal.com.
The full ACP advisory is available here (pdf)
Source: ACP