According to Gabriel Mariscal, business manager at CB Fenton, the Panama Canal faces increased climate change-related challenges due to the inauguration of the NeoPanamax locks in 2016, which demand more water than the older Panamax locks. This need for water is compounded by the requirements of Panama City's growing population, now at 2 million. The El Niño phenomenon, characterized by variations in winds and sea surface temperatures in the tropical Pacific, affects water temperatures and has historically caused disruptions in the region. Mariscal noted that the intensity of future El Niño events, unpredictable in nature, will significantly influence the canal's operation.
Mariscal highlighted the historical impact of strong El Niño events, especially on the Panama Canal and Latin American economies, citing recent disruptions and economic downturns in countries like Peru. He emphasized the need for the Panama Canal Authority to adapt to these challenges, praising its efforts in monitoring climate impacts through its meteorology and hydrology department. This proactive approach, including the detection of climate phenomena and the maintenance of green spaces in Panama City, is crucial for sustaining the canal's operations and, by extension, Panama's economy, heavily reliant on the maritime and tourism sectors.
Source: icis.com