Climate change is no longer just a topic of many conferences, it is a reality. While torrential rains are hitting the capital of Panama, dark clouds over the canal basin should indicate the same flooding on Gatun Lake and the reservoirs, but not a drop falls and signs of a prolonged drought are visible on the surrounding banks. Such unpredictable weather patterns raise serious concerns for the administrator  Panama Canal (ACP), Dr. Ricaurte Vasqueza, who needs to ensure reliable and sustainable services for the channel's customers.   The ACP had to announce in late August that it would maintain a draft of 13.41 meters for the rest of the current year and part of 2024 and reduce the daily number of vessels passing through the canal to 32, from an average of 36 in a normal year. Neopanamax transit capacity will remain largely unchanged at an average of 10 transits per day. The new booking conditions will help reduce ongoing congestion.  In 1997-1998, the El Nino phenomenon caused a major drought, with reduced transits and sinkholes. “But today, the impact of climate change is happening more often and with greater severity,” says Vasquez. “We don’t see as many tropical storms, the hurricanes are Category 4 or 5, and this year the temperature pattern has also been different in Panama, which has increased water evaporation.” which has caused greater salinization of Gatun Lake, which is our biggest challenge. (Michele Labrut)