THE SIZE of vessels transiting the Panama will be restricted starting September 8 due to drought conditions caused by the El Niño phenomenon says The Panama Canal Authority (ACP)

 "This temporary and preventive measure is being adopted because of the effects of 'El Niño,' which has changed the pattern of rainfall in many regions of the planet, including a drought in the basin of the Canal," said a press statement.
The maximum draught of ships will be 39 feet. The authority said it could increase the restriction to 38.5 feet from Sept. 16 if conditions do not improve.
An estimated 18.5 percent of ships transiting the Canal have a draught greater than 39 feet.
Ship owners are notified at least four weeks in advance of any restrictions for planning purposes.
The most recent El Niño period of similar proportions was in 1997-1998.