OREANDA-NEWS. Panama Canal draft restrictions originally slated to take effect 8 September are suspended following heavy rainfall, the Panama Canal Authority (PCA) said this week.

"Although the level of Gatun Lake is still well below normal levels for this time of year, and the "El Nino" phenomenon is still present in our region, the amount of rainfall received in the Canal watershed during the last few days, in addition to the water conservation measures implemented, has made it possible for the Panama Canal to suspend the announced restriction," the PCA stated in a notice to customers.

Vessels will be allowed to transit at drafts of up to 12.04 meters.

If lake levels fall again draft restrictions could be implemented with at least four weeks' notice, according to the PCA.